HC Deb 03 July 1924 vol 175 cc1488-9
30. Lord APSLEY

asked the Under Secretary of State for Air whether negotiations with the French authorities are nearing completion with regard to a proposed seaplane service from Southampton to Cherbourg and various French seaside resorts; and if he is in a position to state when the service will be commenced?

The UNDER-SECRETARY of STATE for AIR (Mr. Leach)

The preliminary negotiations which had been opened with the French authorities in regard to the establishment of a seaplane service from Southampton to Cherbourg and other French ports were not brought to a conclusion because, in view of the experimental nature of the employment of this type of aircraft on regular air transport services, it was considered necessary to confine operations in the first instance to the Southampton-Guernsey service. Valuable experience is being gained on the latter route, but I am not in a position to state whether the services referred to in the Noble Lord's question will be commenced, the decision in regard to this resting primarily with the directors of Imperial Airways, Limited.

Lord APSLEY

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that experiments have been going on for over a year which have proved eminently satisfactory; and in view of the great demand on both sides of the Channel for a passenger and mails service between Cherbourg and Southampton and also to the French holiday resorts before the holiday season is over, will be take any steps to see that the matter is expedited as much as possible?

Mr. LEACH

I can only hope that the Imperial Airways, Limited, will take notice of what the Noble Lord has said and carry out his suggestion.

Captain BRASS

If these services are instituted will a subsidy be given to the company?

Mr. LEACH

The subsidy scheme has already been arranged, and would certainly not be interfered with.