§ 22. Mr. Woodburnasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Aircraft Production, as representing the Minister for Civil Aviation, whether he is aware of the widespread Scottish concern which has arisen from the Minister's recent pronouncement that it is the Government's intention to close down Prestwick aerodrome immediately the main British airport is ready; and whether he will give a categorical assurance that there is no intention to close down Prestwick aerodrome and that it will continue to function.
§ The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Aircraft Production (Mr. Lennox-Boyd)My noble Friend has never made the statement attributed to him in the Question. He has stated and I think it is generally agreed that the main terminal for international services, trans-Atlantic and other, must be near London, which will be the destination of the bulk of the traffic. Until such a terminal has been provided, Prestwick will continue to be used as a terminal in connection with trans-Atlantic flying. Even when the London terminal is in full operation, it will be necessary to maintain alternative airfields for occasional use when weather conditions preclude access to London. Prestwick would probably be one of these. My noble Friend has also indicated that provided the amount of traffic offering justified it, some trans-Atlantic services would very likely stop at Prestwick for the convenience of travellers wishing to embark or disembark in Scotland.
Although the Question is directed to one specific Scottish airfield, I think it is relevant to point out that it is the intention of the Government that in framing their plans for internal air services, Scottish interests shall be adequately served, and that Glasgow will certainly occupy an important place in this network of services.
§ Mr. WoodburnMay I apologise for the misunderstanding? I agree that the Minister did not make this statement himself, but it was made by the Minister of Aircraft Production in the Debate. I regret the inference in the Question.
§ Mr. Lennox-BoydI cannot allow that to pass without saying that the Minister of Aircraft Production never made a dogmatic statement of that kind.
§ Mr. BowlesIs the hon. Gentleman aware of an agreement that has been reached between the United States and Eire, under which all incoming planes to Europe and outgoing planes to America must land on the River Shannon?
§ Mr. Lennox-BoydThat is quite another question.