§ 22. Mr. Simmondsasked the Secretary of State for Air upon what conditions and for what term of years he has granted permission to an American civil air line company to operate an air line across Africa?
§ Sir A. SinclairAn Agreement has been entered into between His Majesty's Government in the United Kingdom and Pan American Airways—Africa, Limited (a wholly-owned subsidiary of Pan American Airways Inc.) for the operation of an air transport service between West Africa and the Anglo-Egyptian Sudan. The Agreement is necessary to enable Pan American Airways to discharge obligations entered into by them with the Government of the United States in connection with the ferrying of aircraft across the South Atlantic and across Africa. The Agreement will 562 run for a period not exceeding one year from the start of the service or for such longer period as may be agreed between the parties.
§ Mr. SimmondsIn view of the fact that it is understood to be the policy of Pan American Airways to run an air line right around the world, will my right hon. Friend bear in mind in any further negotiations with this company or with the United States Government that there should be reciprocity for British air lines to fly over or call at United States territory?
§ Sir A. SinclairI will certainly bear in mind the suggestion that my hon. Friend has made, but I am sure he will agree that we should be very grateful to the United States for the great help that has been given.
§ Mr. KeelingWill my right hon. Friend give an assurance that this Agreement will not be continued after the war?
§ Sir A. SinclairI think it would be premature to discuss any such matter.