HC Deb 26 March 1947 vol 435 cc1220-1
20. Dr. Segal

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Civil Aviation the earliest possible date on which the B.O.A.C. Trans-Sahara route to Kano and Lagos is likely to come into operation; and how frequently it will run.

Mr. Lindgren

It is the long-term plan to operate the air service to West Africa via the Sahara, and this will be done as soon as suitable aircraft are available for the purpose. It is not possible at this stage to say precisely when this will be. In the meantime, the service to Lagos, which at present operates three times a week, and will shortly be increased in frequency, will continue by the coastal route.

Dr. Segal

Does the Parliamentary Secretary realise that both the French and the Belgians have already forestalled us in establishing a direct air service to this important British Colony?

Mr. Lindgren

That is so, but they are operating Skymasters, and these aircraft are not available to B.O.A.C.