HC Deb 19 April 1950 vol 474 c111
6. Mr. John Grimston

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Civil Aviation whether he will provide grass landing strips at all suitable civilian aerodromes under his control to save wear on runways, and so cheapen landing fees for those aircraft able and willing to use them.

Mr. Beswick

At aerodromes controlled by my Department, aircraft able to land off the runways are allowed to do so when the surface is suitable and conditions are appropriate. A lower landing fee would not be justified in such cases.

Mr. Grimston

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that in France, where this practice is common, landing fees for light aircraft are one-quarter and one-fifth of what they are in this country?

Mr. Beswick

Landing fees in this country are already considerably under the economic rate, and it would be difficult to justify a further subsidy.

Air-Commodore Harvey

Is the Minister aware that with petrol up by 9d. a gallon there will not be any civil aircraft to land anywhere?