HC Deb 19 April 1948 vol 449 cc1435-6
69. Mr. Niall Macpherson

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, under what instruments the air corridors through Soviet zones, linking the British zones in Germany and Austria with the British sectors in Berlin and Vienna, respectively, were created and guaranteed as rights of way; what other nations besides Great Britain may use the corridors under the instruments; and what rights are conferred and limitations imposed therein on the Soviet Government for use for purposes other than air communications.

Mr. McNeil

As regards Germany, by an agreement reached in the Control Council on 30th November, 1945, air corridors were established for the use of aircraft of the four occupying Powers. No particular rights were conferred or limitations imposed upon the Soviet Government by this agreement, which merely established the corridors. In the case of Austria, a similar agreement was reached in the Allied Council on 28th June, 1946.

Mr. Macpherson

Does the agreement cover the right of transit between the British sectors and the airport which is used there.

Mr. McNeil

In the case of Austria, the agreement certainly covers the channels between the British zone and Vienna.