HC Deb 10 October 1945 vol 414 cc212-3
Mr. E. P. Smith

On a point of Order, Mr. Speaker, may we have one window, or preferably two, open?

Wing-Commander Cooper

Will the Minister give information with regard to whether the scheme for Heath Row is preferable in every way to the scheme contemplated for Heston before the war as the civil airport for London? Will my hon. Friend also say how much work now in hand will be of use for a civil airport, because my information is that some £100,000 is being wasted on the present scheme?

Mr. Thomas

The scheme being put in hand at Heath Row is, without question, much preferable to the use of Heston. Heston is not really suitable as a major airport for London, and we intend that Heath Row shall be equal to any aerodrome in the world. I am advised that all the work now being done at Heath Row will be suitable for civil purposes and the money, therefore, is not being wasted.

Lieut.-Colonel Hutchison

In view of the hon. Gentleman's statement that Heston is unsatisfactory, and in view of the fact that Heath Row is not yet ready, will the hon. Gentleman consider implementing the promise given to designate Prestwick as an international airport?

Mr. Thomas

I should like it made clear that Heston, of course, is not unsatisfactory for all purposes. I said as a major long distance aerodrome. The question of Prestwick is another matter on which I hope to be able to make a statement at an early date.

Mr. Bowles

In view of the fact that Heath Row will not be ready for two years, and that Croydon is completely unsatisfactory, will the hon. Gentleman make strong representations to the R.A.F. to hand over Northolt, which is the only suitable aerodrome within reasonable distance of London?

Mr. Thomas

It is not a fact that Heath Row will not be ready for another two years. In fact, the R.A.F. will probably be using the first runway at Heath Row next month, and for civil aviation three runways will probably be ready for use next summer. There is, therefore, no foundation for some of the rumours that I have seen on this subject. With regard to the use of Northolt, that is covered by the answer which I have already given on the question of joint user. I should like to take this opportunity, however, of saying that the Air Ministry is being most co-operative in this matter. We realise on our part the overriding needs of defence and the Air Ministry recognises the place for civil aviation in the post-war world.