HC Deb 19 April 1950 vol 474 cc110-1
4. Lieut.-Colonel Sir Thomas Moore

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Civil Aviation what is his Department's policy in regard to the future of Prestwick Airport, with special reference to the operation of internal and external airlines and the manufacture and reconstruction of aircraft.

Mr. Beswick

My noble Friend's policy is to keep Prestwick Airport as an international airport capable of handling transatlantic services. It is expected that some use of the Airport will be made by companies operating internal services. It is also proposed to allow Scottish Aviation Limited to continue in occupation of the aircraft factory premises subject to agreement on rentals and conditions of tenure.

Sir T. Moore

As that answer is not at all satisfactory, I should like to ask the hon. Gentleman one direct question: is it the considered policy of His Majesty's Government to prevent Scotland operating her own internal as well as external lines, and also building her own aircraft?

Mr. Beswick

The considered policy is set out in the answer I have already given.

Sir T. Moore

I must ask for your guidance and help, Mr. Speaker. In view of what is generally recognised in Scotland as the callous attitude of the Government towards the interests of Scotland, I ask that I should be allowed to move the Adjournment of the House to Debate this question.

Mr. Speaker

If the hon. and gallant Gentleman wants to do that, he must bring a notice to the Table and then I will consider it. This is not the time for me to say whether or not I shall accept it.

Sir T. Moore

Then I may take it that I should have your good-will, Sir, if I brought such a notice.

5. Sir T. Moore

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Civil Aviation why his Department has decided to appoint a person to hear, in private, the objections to his proposed compulsory purchase order for Prestwick Airport; and why this matter should not be investigated by a public inquiry.

Mr. Beswick

The hon. and gallant Member is under a misapprehension. The hearing will not be in private.

Sir T. Moore

I should like to thank the hon. Gentleman for that one concession to Scottish aviation.