Small Training Aircraft

HC Deb 12 February 1998 vol 306 cc298-9W

Mr. Hoyle

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will make a statement on the small training aircraft the RAF proposes to purchase. [28794]

Dr. Reid

A competition is currently underway to procure flying hours to meet the University Air Squadron and Air Cadet flying requirements. The contract would also cover provision of a range of support services at the University Air Squadron sites. Bidders have offered a choice of aircraft which will be owned by the contractor. We have recently asked the bidders to 'revise or confirm' their prices and aircraft selection will be made following evaluation of their responses taking into account such factors as cost, operational effectiveness, suitability for task and safety. I very much hope that this process will be completed within the next two months.