HC Deb 23 November 1949 vol 470 cc339-40
20. Mr. Rankin

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Civil Aviation what steps he is prepared to take to reduce the cost of flying tuition particularly in the case of those clubs which use nationalised airfields.

Mr. Lindgren

My noble Friend has no power to intervene in the matter of charges made by private organisations for flying tuition.

Mr. Rankin

Could my hon. Friend ask his noble Friend to consider the cases of these people who desire to learn to fly? Could he not bring his influence to bear in order to reduce the charges which today are extortionate?

Mr. Lindgren

The charges are the responsibility of those who carry out the flying instruction and not of my Ministry.

Mr. Lennox-Boyd

Is not one of the reasons for heavy charges the high Petrol Duty? Is it not within the function of the Government to alter that?

Mr. Lindgren

Yes, Sir; it is within the functions of the Government and, perhaps, a Question could be put to my right hon. Friend the Financial Secretary to the Treasury:

Mr. Marlowe

As the hon. Gentleman says that his noble Friend has no power to intervene in this matter, will he also suggest to his right hon. Friend the noble Lord that he has no right to intervene in the findings of independent tribunals?