asked the Secretary of State for Defence what recent progress has been made in the negotiations for the European fighter aircraft; and if he will make a statement.

asked the Secretary of State for Defence if he will report progress on the development of a European fighter aircraft; and if he will proceed with the project if France expresses its intention not to participate.

Discussions on EFA are continuing as a matter of urgency. The further industrial studies have been received and were considered by the national armament directors of the participating countries at a meeting in Madrid on Tuesday. The Ministers concerned are in close touch. The British Government's aim remains to reach early agreement on a five-nation project which satisfies the military requirements and is conducted on the basis of an equitable industrial partnership.