5 JULY 1997, Page 22

. . . stop backing a loser

NO DOUBT we shall be told that the deci- sion has been taken and that is too late to turn back. We must have been told that by now about the Eurofighter. This project has been gestating for as long as the last two world wars put together, and may just be ready in time for the next: that is, if it can fly. The Germans seem to doubt this, which is worrying, since we have put ourselves down for £16 billion worth at today's prices. What price a plane that does fly? For which war? Yes, I know, this is a grand co-operative Euro-project, with advanced technology, providing work for many people who might be better off if they were paid to go away. As I say, it is never too late to call time.