§ Mr. HoyleTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will make a statement on the current status of the future large aircraft programme. [9979]
§ Mr. George RobertsonThe importance of an air transport capability in the new strategic environment has been demonstrated in numerous recent operations such as the Gulf conflict and Bosnia.
My Department has been closely involved in discussions with European partners on the future large aircraft programme, which is a potential solution to our future air transport requirements. I have now decided that the UK should join partners in issuing a request for proposals to Airbus Military Company for the future large aircraft, and formally endorse the European staff requirement and statement of principles governing the commercial management of the programme.
The programme offers an important opportunity for European industry. The Government believe, however, that there is a need to maintain competitive pressure to ensure best value for money. We shall, therefore, be encouraging our partners to join us in seeking bids from other aircraft manufacturers.
We expect the replacement aircraft to come into service early next century. Precise costs for each aircraft will be provided in response to our request for proposals.