HC Deb 24 November 1948 vol 458 c1218
4. Lieut.-Commander Clark Hutchison

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Civil Aviation how many passengers for London have been carried by motor from Edinburgh to Renfrew by B.E.A.C. since the suspension of the direct Edinburgh—London air service on 1st November.

Mr. Lindgren

I am informed that 30 passengers for London were carried by motor car from Edinburgh to Renfrew by British European Airways Corporation during the period 1st to 9th November inclusive, and 36 in the reverse direction.

Lieut. - Commander Hutchison

Does the Minister consider this arrangement is a satisfactory substitute in practice for the service between Edinburgh and London?

Mr. Lindgren

No, it is not a satisfactory substitute, but I must point out that the load factor is almost as high as it was on the direct service.

Mr. Willis

Does my hon. Friend intend to continue this for the whole of the time until the service is resumed?

Mr. Lindgren

Yes, Sir. So long as Edinburgh requires air communication with the South, using Renfrew in default of Turnhouse, then this service will remain available.