§ 79. Sir Reginald Blairasked the Under-Secretary of State for Air whether any decision has been arrived at in connection with the proposed air base at Langstone Harbour; and what are the terms?
§ Sir V. WarrenderIt is understood that the Portsmouth City Council at their meeting on the 23rd instant adopted a scheme for the proposed air base at Langstone Harbour towards which its proposed, subject to Parliament voting the necessary funds, to make a Government grant, within a maximum of £600,000, equal to 50 per cent. of the net capital cost of the scheme, together with a guaranteed average annual payment of £30,000 for a period of 15 years in respect of facilities provided at the base for long-range overseas services operated by arrangement with the Air Ministry. This general statement is, of course, subject to certain qualifications which will be incorporated in due course in the agreement between the Air Ministry and the city council.
§ Sir R. BlairWill my hon. Friend take steps to ensure that only British gear and plant are employed in this work?
§ Sir V. WarrenderThat will certainly be considered.