§ Mr. JenkinTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what discussions he has had with his French counterpart about the future of the A400M programme. [80016]
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§ Mr. HoonI last met my French counterpart on 4 October when we discussed a number of issues including the A400M programme. We agreed on the importance of that programme and the need to launch it as soon as possible.
§ Mr. JenkinTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence (1) what indications he has received that Germany will order fewer than(a) 73 and (b) 60 A400M aircraft; [80014]
(2) what assessment he has made of the increasing costs of the A400M programme, based on a reduced number of German orders; and if he will make a statement; [80015]
(3) when he last met the Defence Minister of Germany to discuss the A440M programme; and if he will make a statement; [80017]
(4) what the minimum number is of A400M aircraft that Germany must order, for the UK to continue supporting the A400M programme; and how long he is prepared to wait for the minimum number of German orders. [80013]
§ Mr. HoonI had a meeting with my German counterpart on 5 November when we discussed a range of defence topics, including the A400M programme. We both recognised the importance of the A400M programme and the need to launch it as soon as possible.
The German government has made no final decision on whether it will need to change its previously stated requirement for 73 aircraft. It would therefore be premature to speculate on the impact of a reduced German order on the cost of the programme.
§ Mr. DrewTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence if she will make a statement on what progress is being made on the delivery of the A400M; and what discussions she has had with the German Government to discuss the contractual situation. [41127]
§ Dr. MoonieI will write to my hon. Friend and a copy of my letter will be placed in the Library of the House.