§ 57. Mr. Roland Robinsonasked the Secretary of State for Air whether he is aware of the increasing difficulties of airport owners; and what steps he proposes to take to assist local authorities to maintain their airports?
Captain BalfourYes, Sir, I am aware of the situation in regard to civil airports and, as I recently stated, an investigation is being carried out into the possibility of making use of more of them for Royal Air Force purposes. The Government are assisting to a considerable extent by the provision, maintenance and operation of radio facilities, a meteorological organisation and a comprehensive air traffic control organisation, and has also accepted in principle the payment of a contribution towards the capital costs of night-lighting equipment at selected aerodromes.
§ Mr. RobinsonIs not my hon. and gallant Friend aware that unless further financial assistance is given, a number of municipal airports may be forced to close down?
§ Mr. MacquistenIs it true that the Royal Air Force use Aberdeen flying place without paying for it?