HC Deb 22 March 1950 vol 472 cc1948-50
34. Mr. Morley

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Civil Aviation when he estimates that the Princess flying-boats will be using the Southampton Marine Airport; and what interim uses will be found for the airport in the interval.

Mr. Beswick

British Overseas Airways Corporation do not expect delivery of the first Princess flying-boat until early in 1953 for proving and training flights, and it will, no doubt, be somewhat later before these aircraft operate from Southampton Marine Airport. It is too early yet to say what interim use may be found for Southampton Marine Airport.

Sir Peter Macdonald

Will the Minister give an assurance that this excellent base, on which so much money has been spent, will not be dismantled but kept available on a care and maintenance basis ready for when it is needed?

Mr. Beswick

It would be rather difficult to dismantle the larger part of the base, because it is composed of water. As I said last week, it will be on some sort of care and maintenance basis.

Mr. Morley

Can the Minister say what it is proposed to do with the Solent flying-boats?

Mr. Beswkk

We propose to sell them.

Mr. Morley

Is the Minister aware that the Solent flying-boats cost the taxpayers £4½ million, and does he think he will get as much for them when they are sold? If not, where is the economy in closing down the Airport?

Mr. Beswick

All these matters were discussed with my hon. Friend at a meeting which he and others had with the Department, and I have nothing to add to that.

35. Mr. Morley

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Civil Aviation what measures will be taken to secure employment for the personnel of the Southampton Airport whose services will no longer be required at the port owing to the decision to withdraw flying boats from service.

Mr. Beswick

Most of the staff at Southampton Marine Airport are employed by British Overseas Airways Corporation and the possibility of providing alternative employment for them is a matter for the Corporation. The Department employs a few persons on air traffic control and telecommunications duties and most of these will be offered alternative employment at other State airports.

Mr. Morley

Is my hon. Friend making any arrangements to secure housing accommodation for these men when they are transferred to other sites?

Mr. Beswick

That is one of the problems which we are discussing at the moment.