Ear‐to‐ground

BRITISH AIRCRAFT INDUSTRY UNDER INVESTIGATION. Mr Roy Jenkins, (he Minister of Aviation, announced in the House of Commons on December 9 that a Committee under Lord Plowdcn would examine the future place of the aircraft industry in the British economy. Terms of reference of the Plowden Committee are: ‘To consider what should be the future place of the aircraft industry in relation to the economy of the country, taking into account the demands of national defence, export prospects, the comparable industries of other countries, and the relationships of the industry with Government activities in the aviation field; and to make recommendations on any steps and measures necessary’. It is hoped that the Committee will present its findings to the Minister within six months. Speaking on behalf of the British industry, the Society of British Aerospace Companies has welcomed the membership of the Committee and promised every support to enable it to complete its task expeditiously.