HC Deb 22 February 1999 vol 326 cc22-3W
17. Mr. Jim Cunningham

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will make a statement on progress with the design and manufacture of the future large aircraft; and when it is planned to go into production. [70507]

Mr. Spellar

The MOD received bids at the end of January for competing aircraft to meet our requirement for future transport aircraft. The Future Large Aircraft—now designated the A400M by Airbus Industries—is a candidate in this competition. UK officials are assessing these bids with other European partners. I will announce the outcome to the House once a decision has been made.