Written question asked by Laurence Robertson (Conservative) on Thursday, 11 May 2000, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 18 May 2000. It was answered by Geoffrey Hoon (Labour) on Thursday, 18 May 2000 on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.

Ministry of Defence

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, when he will make a decision on his Department's participation in the A400M airbus project; and if he will make a statement.

Answer: Mr. Hoyle: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence when he will make an announcement on the preferred supplier for the short-term and long-term heavy lift aircraft. [122144] Mr. Robertson: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence when he will make a decision on his Department's participation in the A400M airbus project; and if he will make a statement. [122396] Mr. Hoon: I announced on 16 May the Government's intention to procure 25 A400M aircraft, to be developed and produced by Airbus Military, to meet the strategic airlift needs of our Armed Forces in the medium to long term. In the interim we will meet our short term needs through lease of four C-17 aircraft from The Boeing Company. This investment in our strategic airlift capability delivers the major enhancements promised in the Strategic Defence Review and will ensure that our Armed Forces are properly equipped with the best equipment.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 122396; 350 c206W;350 c208W
Session: 1999-00
Subjects: Contracts Procurement Military aircraft Transport A400M aircraft C-17 aircraft
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk