asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will make a statement on the future of the United Kingdom helicopter industry; and what measures he is considering to strengthen its technological arid strategic position.

Westland plc is the United Kingdom's only helicopter manufacturer. The company recently announced pre-tax profits of £26·4 million for the year ended 30 September 1986, of which £8·9 million was attributable to its helicopter business. My Department is providing launch aid to Westland for the development of the commercial versions of the EH 101 helicopter. The company also receives funding from the Department for a number of technological research projects.