Written question asked by Gerald Howarth (Conservative) on Tuesday, 25 May 2004, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 14 June 2004. It was answered by Adam Ingram (Labour) on Monday, 14 June 2004 on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.

Ministry of Defence

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what representations he has received from QinetiQ about the Typhoon's software and computer programmes; what representations he has received from the companies involved in the Typhoon programme about that aircraft's software and computer programmes; what representations he has received from the RAF about the Typhoon's software and computer systems.

Answer: Mr. Gerald Howarth: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence (1) what representations he has received from QinetiQ about the Typhoon's software and computer programmes; [176474] (2) what representations he has received from the companies involved in the Typhoon programme about that aircraft's software and computer programmes; [176476] (3) what representations he has received from the RAF about the Typhoon's software and computer systems. [176477] Mr. Ingram: No representations have been received about Typhoon's software and computer programmes. However, reports on all aspects of the Typhoon, including the software and computing, have been commissioned by the Ministry of Defence from both the companies involved in the programme and the Independent Assessor (QinetiQ in this case). This is the normal process for all new aircraft types entering service. It is the responsibility of MOD to take into account these reports and establish whether an aircraft meets the necessary safety requirements. Typhoon has been assessed to meet those requirements, allowing the Assistant Chief of the Air Staff to authorise the aircraft's Release to Service permitting operation under RAF safety procedures.

Secondary information