§ Mr. HuttonTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what is the cause of the delay at Rolls-Royce in reconditioning RB199 engines for RAF Tornadoes; how many are currently with Rolls-Royce or waiting to be sent to it; how many would be unserviceable at any one time under usual conditions; and what steps the Government are taking to ensure that Rolls-Royce resolves the problems it currently faces and meets the terms of its contract for servicing RB 199 engines for the RAF.[41347]
§ Mr. ArbuthnotComplete RB 199 engines are not currently, nor have been held at, Rolls-Royce for reconditioning. Modules for incorporation into the RAF Tornado RB199 engine are reconditioned by Rolls-Royce. Production delays have been experienced because of industrial action at Rolls-Royce plants earlier this year. RAF logistics command has maintained continuous pressure on Rolls-Royce to meet the RAF's requirements and a programme of measures has been initiated to achieve required production levels. CinC Logistics Command met Rolls-Royce senior executives last week and used the occasion to impress on them the need for their personal and continued commitment in meeting new production targets.