HL Deb 03 July 2001 vol 626 cc37-8WA
Lord Hardy of Wath

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether they consider development of the future European military transport aircraft is proceeding in a satisfactory manner; and whether any steps are being taken to secure this project. [HL77]

Lord Bach

Progress on the A400M programme is highlighted by the significant step forward recently achieved when the Secretary of State for Defence, with several European colleagues, signed the A400M Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at the Paris Airshow on 19 June. This MoU commits the UK to buying 25 A400M aircraft in order to satisfy the UK's future transport aircraft requirement, alongside commitments from other partners. Signature of the A400M MoU paves the way for placement of the contract with Airbus Military Company, has the force of law for some partner nations, and is a significant step in securing the project. Signature of the contract is conditional on satisfactory completion of contractual negotiations. Officials are working hard to resolve these issues with a view to contract placement as soon as possible.