HC Deb 17 July 1946 vol 425 c1205
26. Mr. Osborne

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Air if he will make electricity available to all the village houses in Strubby, Lincolnshire, from the aerodrome, and speed up the general policy of sharing water, electricity and sanitation services with all villages in proximity to aerodromes which have such public services available.

Mr. de Freitas

The supply of water and electricity at most airfields is provided by public utility authorities. We are always ready to consider suggestions for sharing any spare supplies once we know what the authorities would like us to provide. We have only had two applications for electricity to be supplied to houses in Strubby; one has been approved, the other is being considered. As a matter of fact, we may be unable Ito help much more in this way at Strubby if the airfield is needed for flying again.

Mr. Osborne

Will the hon. Gentleman bear in mind that in Lincolnshire, where there are a lot of these aerodromes, applications have been made, and since it is the woman who has to put up with the inconvenience and will decide whether her man remains on the land for getting the food or not, will he make it a matter of urgency, and really do something about it?

Mr. de Freitas

I shall certainly look into points of delay which the hon. Gentleman can bring to my attention.

Mr. York

Is the announcement the hon. Gentleman has just made the general policy of the Air Ministry in regard to other areas?

Mr. de Freitas

Yes, Sir. Lincolnshire has no special right in this matter.