§ Mr. BreedTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what the cost to the UK for Eurofighter will be in 2003–04; what percentage of the defence budget this represents; and if he will make a statement. [115108]
§ Mr. Ingram[holding answer 22 May 2003]The cost to the United Kingdom for the Eurofighter Typhoon in 2003–04 is currently forecast to be £1,465 million; this represents just under 4.0 per cent. of the total defence budget for this financial year. This figure includes procurement of the aircraft, the associated Aircrew Synthetic Training Aids system and in-service support equipment and facilities.
§ Mr. Gerald HowarthTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what discussions he has had with the recently departed Chief of the Defence Staff regarding Her Majesty"s Government"s order for 232 Typhoon aircraft. [113904]
§ Mr. IngramMy right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Defence had regular discussions with the "recently departed" Chief of the Defence Staff about a wide range of important enhancements to the capability of our Armed Forces including Typhoon.