§ Mr. Craven-Ellis(by Private Notice) asked the Secretary of State for Air whether any further progress has been 3502 made in regard to the selection of an Empire Flying Boat base in this country?
Captain BalfourYes, Sir. As a result of negotiations which have been carried on recently between the Southampton Harbour Authorities and my Department, at a meeting of the Harbour Board held yesterday the Harbour Commission decided that the arrangements proposed by my Department for the provision of an Empire flying-boat terminal base at Southampton were acceptable in principle. The method of reconciling the development of this terminal with the shipping interests is a matter yet to be explored in detail, and this aspect has been discussed at length with the Harbour Board Authorities. It has now been agreed that statutory powers should be sought for the reservation of an area of water for the exclusive use of aircraft in Southampton Water. The operation of aircraft both by day and night, and in conditions of bad visibility, will be controlled under a new system which is still under discussion with the Harbour Authorities and which will fully protect the shipping interests of the port. I am also in touch with my right hon. Friend the President of the Board of Trade.
I would like to take this opportunity of expressing my appreciation to the members of the Harbour Board and their officers, for the willing co-operation and assistance which have made possible this agreement in principle.