§ 90. Colonel BURGOYNEasked the Under-Secretary of State to the Air Ministry whether any subsidy, or advantages in lieu of subsidy, is being made by the Government to aviation firms for the development of commercial aviation; and if so, which are the firms and what is the nature of the subsidy?
§ Major-General SEELYThe answer to my hon. and gallant Friend is that whilst no direct subsidies are being made by the Government for the development of civil aviation, assistance is given to all firms desirous of receiving it in the following directions: The free supply of meteorological information and free communication services wireless, signals, flying directions, etc.). Arrangements are also in hand for the establishment of a system of emergency landing grounds throughout the country which will be open to all firms who wish to make use of them. At Government aerodromes, other than those required purely for Royal Air Force services, aerodrome facilities and shedding is available for all firms on lease, thus saving them a considerable proportion of the initial capital expenditure.
An HON. MEMBERWhat is the contemplated cost of all these advantages which are being offered to these private firms?
§ Major-General SEELYThe cost is comparatively small, as my hon. Friend will see if he looks at the list, and the advantages are very great. I can give the hon. Member a precise estimate if he likes.