HC Deb 26 March 1947 vol 435 cc1215-6
12. Mr. Eric Fletcher

asked the Secretary of State for Air what progress has been made with the air photograph survey of Great Britain; and when will the results be made available to the public.

Mr. P. Noel-Baker

The R.A.F. have made air photographs of about two-thirds of the United Kingdom. This photo- graphy can only be done in clear weather, and in special aircraft, with crews who have special experience and skill. For these reasons, the making of new photographs is not keeping pace with the demand from the Ministry of Town and Country Planning and from other departments. I am considering the question of the general sale of these photographs to the public, but, in view of the shortages of staff and materials, I cannot yet say how soon this can be arranged.

Mr. Godfrey Nicholson

Are these aircraft placed at the disposal of the Archaeological Officer of the Ordnance Survey?

Mr. Noel-Baker

Of course we work very closely with the Ordnance Survey authority and all photographs are made to Ordnance Survey standards, so that I think the Ordnance Survey can obtain roughly what they want.

Mr. Nicholson

But is the Archaeological Officer included?

Mr. Noel-Baker

I think so.