DEFENCE Secretary Michael Portillo made a flying visit to BAe Warton to view the multi-million pound Eurofighter jets which face an uncertain future.

As part of his visit on Monday (October 21) he told of the Government's commitment to the project but warned that one of the programme partners, Germany, might delay it because of spending cuts in their budget.

Mr Portillo said this would cost money: "A delay would make it more expensive and more difficult for us to export and would be a great shame as the Eurofighter is an international winner." Mr Portillo said the Government was in constant contact with partners Italy, Spain and of course Germany: "We do apply pressure but it is friendly pressure."

It was the second time in three days a government minister had been in the region.

On Friday (October 18), Foreign Secretary Malcolm Rifkind visited W Bowker Transport, Bamber Bridge, to see a newly-developed satellite tracking system capable of checking on the progress of their lorries anywhere in Europe.

He also inspected one of the latest additions to Bowkers' fleet of trucks and had a guided tour of GUND soft toy company based in Bowkers which imports and exports teddies worldwide.

Mr Rifkind was very impressed with what he saw. He said: "I was very keen to see the company at first hand.

"This is a good example of how Britain remains at the forefront of technology," he added.

Bowker Accountant David Heppenstall said: "It is very interesting for us to have a minister visiting our humble road haulage depo."

Pat Green, Office Supervisor for GUND, who presented the minister with a complimentary bear, Major Bearkin, said: "It is a reward for all the staff."

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