HC Deb 02 July 1947 vol 439 cc1314-5
60 Mr. Ernest Davies

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Civil Aviation (1) why meals are no longer served free on board aircraft operated by B.E.A.C.; and whether there was consultation with other airlines prior to reaching this decision;

(2) the cost of providing meals free to passengers by each of the civil aviation corporations for the last financial year or latest available date;

(3) whether any change is contemplated in the practice of serving meals free to passengers travelling in aircraft operated by the B.O.A.C. and B.S.A.A.C.

Mr. Lindgren

The cost of meals provided on aircraft, and the question whether they should be provided free, are matters of management with which my noble Friend does not consider it proper for him to interfere. The Question of whether meals should be provided free has been the subject of discussion between airline operators in the International Air Transport Association, and the policy of the three British corporations is in accordance with the resolutions of that body.

Mr. Davies

Will my hon. Friend inform me, in view of the fact that very heavy subsidies are paid to these corporations, whether the Minister has not the right to ask for this information in accordance with the Act?

Mr. Lindgren

Yes, Sir, he can ask for the information, and if it were asked for it would be given, but this House has expressly desired that the Minister should interfere as little as possible in the day-to-day matters of management.

Mr. Davies

Does my hon. Friend not agree that in this case public money is involved, and that it makes a large difference in the competitive powers of these aircraft with other aircraft?

Mr. Lindgren

My hon. Friend will be aware that the I.A.T.A. determines such questions as the fares to be charged and what they shall include. The three corporations comply strictly with these international resolutions.

Mr. Davies

Why is it that a certain European line does provide meals with out extra charge?

Mr. Lindgren

The fact is that I.A.T.A. works in regions, with each region determining the tares which shall operate and the conditions attaching to those fares. As far as we are concerned, instead of saying that the fare "shall" include meals, it says "may," and the British interpretation of "may" is that they can have an opportunity to charge.

Mr. Davies

I beg to give notice that J shall raise this matter on the Adjournment.

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