HC Deb 24 October 1945 vol 414 cc1999-2000
21. Sir P. Macdonald

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies how many aircraft the British West Indian Airways operate; and what are the possibilities of extending this service to other West Indian islands.

Mr. George Hall

British West Indian Airways at present operate five aircraft. The company is now operating air services to Trinidad, Barbados, British Guiana, Grenada, St. Lucia, St. Kitts and Jamaica. Their services to Antigua and St. Vincent have been temporarily discontinued owing to difficulties in regard to the airfield there. The extension of the company's service is under consideration and it is hoped to arrange this as soon as the necessary facilities are available, and the necessary arrangements can be made.

Sir P. Macdonald

Is it not a fact that these planes are very unsatisfactory; and will the right hon. Gentleman take steps at the earliest possible moment to see that other machines are available?

Mr. Hall

We have had no complaints of that matter.

Colonel Oliver Stanley

Did the Minister say that he has had no complaints about the Hudsons which are now being operated by that company?

Mr. Hall

I know of no complaints; I shall certainly make inquiries.

Sir P. Macdonald

But the chairman of this company has been over here for weeks trying to see the right hon. Gentleman on this matter.

Mr. Hall

He has made no application to me; otherwise I would have seen him.