HC Deb 15 January 1998 vol 304 cc265-6W
Mr. Cousins

To ask the President of the Board of Trade if she will list the projects on which launch aid had been granted before, and on which payment was outstanding on, 1 May 1997, the total sum granted in each case and the payments (i) received in(a) 1995–96 and (b) 1996–97 and (ii) projected for 1997–98. [22980]

Mr. Battle

The following table details all the projects on which launch aid was outstanding at 1 May 1997 (all figures in £ million), together with amounts received by the Government in the form of levy payments for years 1995–96 and 1996–97. Forecast receipts are not disclosed in advance of the end of the financial year for reasons of commercial confidentiality; such information may be market sensitive in cases where the Companies concerned have not published their financial results for the relevant period.

£ million
Project Total sum granted Payments received
1995–96 1996–97
A320 Family of Aircraft 249.3 29.3 42.7
A330/340 Aircraft 447.1 Nil Nil
RB211-535 Aeroengine 261.8 13.5 15.2
RB211-524 Aeroengine 177.6 1.5 2.4
V2500 Aeroengine 60.0 2.0 3.7
EH101 Helicopter 60.0 Nil Nil
Lear 45 Executive Jet 17.7 Nil Nil

Mr. Cousins

To ask the President of the Board of Trade if she will list the projects which have been granted launch aid since 1 May 1997, the sum granted and the number of jobs secured. [22981]

Mr. Battle

On the 12 November 1997, the Government announced a long term investment of up to £200 million in Rolls-Royce plc's large engine programme. The investment is expected to secure 16,000 jobs in the Company and its UK suppliers.

No other projects have been granted Launch Aid since 1 May 1997.