§ Mr. Carter-Jonesasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry how many firm orders and options had been placed for the A320 aircraft as at 17 October; whether any financial support given by Her Majesty's Government will be recovered; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. PattieAs at 17 October 1986, 134 firm orders and 131 options had been placed for Airbus A320 aircraft. In addition, other commitments for up to a further 152 A320 aircraft had been made at that date under letters of intent, memoranda of understanding or other agreements.
The launch-aid being provided to British Aerospace in respect of its participation in the A320 programme is recoverable by a combination of payments on a fixed timescale in 1990–92 and levies on aircraft sold. In terms of the eventual recovery of the Government's investment the level of firm orders, options and other commitments presently held is very encouraging for an aircraft not scheduled to enter airline service until spring 1988.
§ Mr. Carter-Jonesasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what discussions have taken place between his Department and British Aerospace in relation to supporting the proposed A330 and A340 Airbus; what priority his Department gives to active British participation in future developments of such larger civil aircraft; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. PattieMy Department has maintained close contact with British Aerospce as the Airbus Industrie proposals for the Airbus A330 and A340 have evolved in recent months. An application from British Aerospace for launch-aid in respect of the proposed A330-A340 programme was received earlier this week and will be carefully considered.