HC Deb 15 April 1935 vol 300 cc1589-90
24. Lieut.-Colonel GAULT

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Air whether any committee has been entrusted with the duty of preparing a comprehensive scheme, including the ground organisa tion of aerodromes, for the development of internal airways; and, if so, when its report may be expected?

Sir VICTOR WARRENDER (Vice-Chamberlain of the Household)

I have been asked to reply. My Noble Friend has decided that it is essential to accelerate the survey to which my right hon. Friend referred in his speech introducing Air Estimates, and that its first stage should be completed within a period of three months. The work will be entrusted to the Aerodromes Advisory Board, on which professional and technical institutions, as well as Government Departments, are represented, provided that body can undertake to complete it within the time specified.

Lieut.-Colonel GAULT

Is the hon. Member aware that municipalities have postponed establishing municipal aerodromes pending an authorised scheme, and that further delay in this respect will retard the development of civil airways?

Mr. SIMMONDS

Is it not a fact that there is complete stalemate between His Majesty's Government. and this Board, that the Royal Aeronautical Society has withdrawn its representatives, and does he not think that some new and more effective board should immediately be appointed?

Viscountess ASTOR

Should not this have been done at least two years ago, and is it not true that there is a great deal of discontent over this organisation?

Sir V. WARRENDER

I will convey to my right hon. Friend the views that have been expressed.