§ Mr. CousinsTo ask the Prime Minister if he will make representations to Airbus to ensure that a British team(a) leads the planning and (b) provides the powershaft for the A400M heavy lift transport for the RAF. [40563]
§ The Prime MinisterThe Government of course hope that the UK defence industry will be involved as much as possible in this project and recognise the considerable expertise that industry could bring to this project. Ultimately, Airbus Military is free to select its own suppliers on the grounds of performance and cost.