HC Deb 15 February 1939 vol 343 cc1708-9
36. Mr. Day

asked the Secretary of State for Air what progress has been made towards the establishment of a central airport for London?

Sir K. Wood

As was stated in a reply to a question by my hon. and learned Friend, the Member for East Leicester (Mr. Lyons), on 1st November last, the establishment of a central airport for London is not in contemplation. It is not considered practicable to handle the whole of the existing, and likely future, London air traffic from a single airport. The intention is that this traffic should be handled from main aerodromes on suitable sites in a belt round London. In regard to the progress in the development of these airports, I would refer the hon. Member to the reply which was given to my hon. Friend the Member for Stroud (Mr. Perkins) on the 1st of this month.

Mr. Day

Has the committee that was considering this matter concluded its investigations?

Sir K. Wood

Perhaps the hon. Member will put that question down.

Mr. Lyons

In fixing the location for these airports on a belt around London, will that same committee take note of the transport facilities or lack of them in those airports to Central London?

Sir K. Wood

That is a matter that will, of course, be considered.