HC Deb 05 May 1937 vol 323 cc1148-9
39. Mr. Perkins

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Air what is the Government's attitude to the Maybury Report?

44. Wing-Commander Wright

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Air whether he will give an assurance that the recommendation of the Maybury Committee with regard to internal air services will not be put into operation until this House has had an opportunity of approving this report?

The Under-Secretary of State for Air (Sir Philip Sassoon)

I will answer these questions together as they both arise out of what appears to be some misunderstanding of the position on my hon. Friends' part. I would draw attention to the memorandum accompanying Air Estimates in which my Noble Friend announced that the Government have already approved those recommendations in the Maybury Report which call for action on the part of the Air Ministry. The Air Navigation Act passed last Session provides that a licensing system may be established by Order in Council approved by a Resolution of both Houses of Parliament. The necessary Order will be submitted to Parliament in due course.

Mr. Perkins

Do I understand that in due course the House will have an opportunity of discussing all these recommendations?

Sir P. Sassoon

Yes, Sir, a full opportunity.

Mr. Montague

Have the Government come to a decision between the alternative suggestions in the report?

Sir P. Sassoon

No such decisions can be taken until the licensing authority has been set up.