§ 30. Lieut.-Colonel Bromley-Davenportasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Civil Aviation whether he is aware that the Wilmslow Urban District Council will be obliged to spend an additional sum, amounting to approximately £.1,000, in order to adapt its proposed new street lighting system to the requirements of his Department; and whether, in view of the fact that the benefit resulting therefrom will accrue solely to aviation interests and not to the local inhabitants or road transport interests, steps will be taken either to modify the requirements or to provide some financial assistance towards the cost.
§ The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Civil Aviation (Mr. Beswick)Yes, Sir. My noble Friend is satisfied that the adaptations to the proposed system are essential to the safety not only of the aircraft using the aerodrome but also of persons and property on the ground in its vicinity. Where existing lights need to be modified to meet air navigation requirements my noble Friend will consider an ex gratia contribution, but he has no authority to contribute towards the cost of adaptations to new lighting systems. He is, however, having the whole matter examined further, and will communicate with the hon. and gallant Member in due course.