HC Deb 25 May 1944 vol 400 cc927-8
45. Mr. Edgar Granville

asked the Prime Minister if, as the result of the meeting of Dominion Prime Ministers, it is the intention of His Majesty's Government to make a statement on Commonwealth policy on the future of civil aviation; and whether the House of Commons will be given an opportunity of debating this before the International Conference takes place.

The Deputy Prime Minister (Mr. Attlee)

The question of civil aviation was discussed at the meeting with Dominion Prime Ministers in the light of developments since the British Commonwealth conversations last October. There is, however, nothing which at present calls for a further statement of policy by His Majesty's Government.

As regards the last part of the Question, I have nothing to add at present to what my right hon. Friend the Prime Minister said on 18 April arising out of Questions addressed to him by the hon. Members for Duddeston (Sir O. Simmonds) and Seaham (Mr. Shinwell).

Mr. Granville

In view of the fact that we have often been put off, while waiting for this conference on civil aviation plans, may I ask if it is intended to go to the international conference with Empire plans; and is it intended to organise these air lines on a Commonwealth basis, or are we going to leave it to American aircraft manufacturers to do it for us?

Mr. Attlee

I have nothing to add to what my right hon. Friend said.

Mr. Granville

On a point of Order. Owing to the unsatisfactory nature of the reply, I beg to give notice that I will raise this matter on the Motion for the Adjournment.