asked the Minister of Supply to what extent he is responsible for specifying forward designs of aircraft for British civil air lines; and what steps are taken to ensure that the user is fully consulted at every stage.

The Airways Corporations are primarily responsible for specifying future requirements of civil aircraft. The requirements are agreed with all interested parties, including the Ministry of Supply, and I am satisfied that my Department is fully consulted at all stages in the development of this aircraft.

asked the Minister of Supply if he will make a statement with regard to specifications for civil aviation designs submitted to manufacturers which aim to copy the four-engine Lockheed Constellation with Bristol Centaurus engines; how many aircraft of this type it is proposed to order from the constructors; and by what date it is expected that such aircraft will be available for service on our airline routes.

I assume my hon. Friend is referring to the requirement which was received some time ago from the British Overseas Airways Corporation for a new medium range aircraft for use on the Empire routes. Tender designs prepared by various aircraft firms are now being examined, and until this examination is complete it is not possible to make any statement.

Can my right hon. Friend say if it is intended to use American designs? If so, is it not likely that the new designs produced by this country will have superseded those American designs by the time they are ready for the routes?

I think this will be found to be a quite advanced design.

Will my right hon. Friend place the utmost stress on our own constructors producing the most modern designs at the earliest possible moment?

Most certainly.