§ Dr. David ClarkTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence (1) what consideration he has made of the purchase of Chinook support helicopters for the RAF;
(2) how many support helicopters he expects to purchase to meet the RAF's requirements;
(3) when he expects to make a decision on the procurement of support helicopters for the Royal Air Force; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. FreemanAs announced in the 1994 Statement on the Defence Estimates, we are considering the Boeing Chinook and Westland EH101 to meet our requirement for additional support helicopters. Price and performance data for the two aircraft have been received. Those data are currently being assessed. No decision has been taken as to how many helicopters or of what type to purchase. An announcement will be made as soon as our negotiations are complete.
§ Dr. David ClarkTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence if it is his policy to possess a mixed fleet of utility support helicopters for the RAF; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. FreemanWe recognise the potential advantages of a mixed fleet. Price is also a key consideration. Negotiations with industry are still continuing. No decision has yet been made.