§ Dr. David ClarkTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what consideration he has given to the proposal 429W to lease American F16 aircraft; and when he expects to announce his decision to the House. [8989]
§ Mr. ArbuthnotMy Department is currently evaluating a proposal to upgrade the Tornado F3's weapons systems. As a routine part of our evaluation process, we are examining the comparative costs of alternative options, including acquiring F16 aircraft from the United States. We expect to take a decision on whether or not to proceed with the Tornado F3 upgrade by the end of the current financial year. Any procurement decisions will be announced to the House in the usual way.