HC Deb 02 February 1948 vol 446 cc1470-1
50. Mr. Gammans

asked the Prime Minister for what reason a special aircraft is being ordered for his use and that of the Cabinet; what is the estimated capital cost and the annual operating cost; and why it is not possible for members of the Cabinet either to travel by B.E.A.C., B.E.A.C. or a charter company.

The Prime Minister

As stated in my reply to the hon. Member for Orpington (Sir W. Smithers) on 6th February, 1947, two Tudor III's have been ordered, not for the exclusive use of myself and the Cabinet, but also for other important persons, delegations and their staffs, trade missions, etc., travelling by air in order to enable them to fulfil their official duties. The revised estimate of the capital cost is £155,000 per aircraft. The annual cost will depend on the extent of their use, but it is expected to be less than the expenditure involved by chartering special aircraft, either from the Corporations or from charter companies.

As regards the last part of the Question, the Corporations' services are used, as far as possible, within the limitation of the routes operated by them, but for reasons of security and speed in the despatch of public business, as well as the convenience of ordinary passengers on the commercial aircraft, it is impossible to rely only upon aircraft provided at present by the Corporations or charter companies.

Mr. Gammans

Before incurring this very large capital expenditure and these indefinite running expenses did the Government ask charter companies to tender a price, or was any attempt whatsoever made to find an alternative way of doing what might be very necessary work more cheaply?

The Prime Minister

I should like to see that question on the Paper.

Mr. Hale

Is my right hon. Friend aware of the very great pleasure his announcement will give in Oldham where these aeroplanes are made, and that its value to the British aircraft industry is incalculable compared with the very small cost involved?

Wing-Commander Hulbert

Did the Cabinet take this decision upon the advice of the Minister of Civil Aviation?

The Prime Minister

The Minister of Civil Aviation was fully consulted.