§ Mr. Wilsonasked the Secretary of State for Transport what funds he makes available for helicopter research: and what will be the proposed expenditure in 1987–88.
§ Mr. Michael SpicerThe Civil Aviation Authority is undertaking a three-year programme of research into helicopter safety costing £1.6 million and based upon recommendations made by the helicopter airworthiness requirements panel. It is the Government's policy that the civil aviation industry should normally meet the costs of research. But, exceptionally, my Department is contributing £400,000 towards the cost of this programme, including £165,000 in 1987–88. The Department of Energy, the United Kingdom Offshore Operators Association and the CAA are also contributing.