Chinese in U.K. to see Harrier

Press, 3 July 1979, Page 8

Chinese in U.K. to see Harrier

NZPA-Reuter London A Chinese military delegation has arrived in London for a look at the jump-jet Harrier aircraft, which they want to buy apparently for deployment along the borders. Yang Yong, vice-chief of the General Staff, is heading the 12-member delegation on the 12-day visit to Britain. A British Defence Ministry spokesman, asked if the purpose of watching the jump-jet in action was to place an order, said, “undoubtedly the Harrier will almost certainly be a high area of interest.” The Soviet Union has warned Britain of serious consequences if it supplies China with the revolutionary jet, which needs only a

small take-off area and can work in rugged terrain. Britain has said it would sell the aircraft only as part of a wider trade deal. The delegation’s visit is described by British officials as all-purpose. It will include tours of various defence establishments round Britain, the first time such sensitive areas have been shown to the Chinese. Britain’s Chief of Defencs Staff, (Marshal of the Royal Air Force Sir Neil Cam, eron), invited the delegation. Sir Neil made a con, troversial trip to China last year, during which he said Britain and China "both have an enemy at our dooj whose capital is Moscow.”

The remark brought com, plaints from the Soviet Union.