HC Deb 22 June 1938 vol 337 cc1063-4
60. Mr. R. Robinson

asked the Secretary of State for Air whether the ban on air-line bookings has now been completely removed?

Captain Balfour

As I have already informed the House, the railway companies have intimated their intention to remove the ban on air bookings. The ban has been removed in the case of all internal air lines except in respect of the three services of Channel Air Ferries, Limited, and negotiations are in active progress between the operating company and the railway companies. The ban also applies to the Dublin service of West Coast Air Services Limited and that case is also under consideration.

Mr. Robinson

Will the Under-Secretary look into the case of the air charter companies; and is he aware that the usual agencies while they book charters for Imperial Airways and its associated companies refuse to take such bookings for smaller companies like British American Air Services Limited?

Captain Balfour

If such services are operated at separate fares so as to require a licence under the new licensing order, they will be in the same position as regards booking facilities as any other licensed service.

Mr. Mander

Is the ban still in operation on bookings for the Irish Free State?

Captain Balfour

For the moment, yes, but negotiations are being pursued actively with a view to its removal.