HC Deb 06 March 1935 vol 298 cc1924-5
18. Mr. EVERARD

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Air when it is proposed to increase the number of directional wireless stations in Great Britain; where the new stations will be situated; and whether preference will be given to those municipalities who are prepared to establish a station without recourse to Government funds?

Sir P. SASSOON

Arrangements to augment direction-finding facilities are well advanced, and new stations will be brought into operation gradually, commencing next month. Subject to the satisfactory completion in certain cases of negotiations with the aerodrome owners, it is anticipated that facilities will be provided in the following localities amongst others—Heston, Hull, Renfrew, Bristol and Plymouth. As regards the last part of the question, the fact that a municipality is prepared to bear the cost will certainly be taken into account, but the overriding consideration must be the fitting of the stations as a whole into the national network of air routes which is in process of being built up.

Mr. EVERARD

Will my right hon. Friend give consideration to a station in the Midlands, as it is very important to have one in the centre of England?

Mr. KIRKWOOD

May I ask the right hon. Gentleman whether the station to be put down at Renfrew is to be equipped with all the most modern and up-to-date appliances?

Sir P. SASSOON

Yes, these are the most up-to-date wireless appliances.