§ Mr. WarrenTo ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster if he will make a statement on the negotiations with the European Space Agency concerning United Kingdom industrial participation in the polar platform satellite.
§ Mr. AtkinsThe European Space Agency and its member states are currently reviewing alternative concepts for the polar platform in the light of studies led by British Aerospace and Matra respectively. The United Kingdom will be seeking the most cost-effective solution consistent with our objective of securing the progressive commercialisation of earth observation. British industry can expect to play a leading role in the development of whichever platform is selected to meet this end.