HC Deb 11 May 1938 vol 335 cc1573-4
44. Sir Walter Smiles

asked the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster whether he can make any statement as to the proposed aerodrome at Samlesbury between Blackburn and Preston?

The Under-Secretary of State for Air (Lieut.-Colonel Muirhead)

My Department is not establishing an aerodrome at Samlesbury. I understand, however, that land was purchased by the Corporations of Preston and Blackburn a few years ago with a view to the establishment of a civil aerodrome and that the preparation of a portion of this land for aerodrome purposes is under consideration by the local authorities, but that no decision has yet been reached in regard to its full development.

Sir W. Smiles

In view of the distress in the cotton industry in Blackburn, will not the Government consider giving assistance to this project now, in order to relieve unemployment in that area?

Lieut.-Colonel Muirhead

The policy of the Government in regard to civil aerodromes has been stated on a number of occasions. They grant assistance in various directions to aerodromes which are in existence, but it is the policy not to make any grants towards their actual construction.

Mr. Thurtle

In any case, have not the Government brought prosperity to the country?