§ 8. Mr. Orr-Ewingasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Civil Aviation how many passengers were carried on the Weston-super-Mare—Cardiff Air Ferry Service during the periods October to March in 1937–1938, 1938–1939, and 1946–1947, respectively.
§ Mr. LindgrenThe numbers of passengers carried on this service during the periods in question were 2,669, 4,129 and 4,875, respectively.
§ Mr. Orr-EwingIn view of the figures which the Parliamentary Secretary has given, does not he recognise that they are proof of a demand by those in industry and commerce on both sides of the Bristol Channel for the maintenance of this service, and will he reconsider the decision to withdraw the service?
§ Mr. LindgrenThe capacity used was only 50 per cent. of that available, and, therefore, in those circumstances, it was 360 not an economic operation. As soon as circumstances permit, a reintroduction of the service will be considered.
§ Mr. Lennox-BoydWill the hon. Gentleman consider allowing a charter company to tender for that service and to run smaller and more economical aircraft?
§ Mr. SpeakerThat is another question; the only Question asked was how many passengers were carried, and that was answered.