§ 55. Mr. R. Robinsonasked the Secretary of State for Air what progress has been made towards the formation of a joint operating company for European air services as recommended by the Cadman Report?
Captain BalfourNegotiations between the two companies concerned are in progress, and steps will be taken to see that there is no avoidable delay.
§ Mr. RobinsonIn view of the fact that it is now five months since the Cadman Committee reported, will my hon. and gallant Friend give the companies a date before which negotiations must be completed for the formation of this joint operating company?
Captain BalfourI do not think it is practicable to give the date by which two companies must complete certain commercial negotiations for which they themselves must be primarily responsible, but I can assure him that we are doing everything we can to urge on this matter and to give the companies every assistance that it is the power of the Department to give.
§ Mr. ManderIs it the case that a new general manager has recently been appointed for this work?