HC Deb 29 November 1950 vol 481 c1148
46. Mr. Powell

asked the Minister of Defence if he will direct that all trooping movements by civil aircraft will be made by companies operating the auxiliary transport scheme.

The Minister of Defence (Mr. Shinwell)

No, Sir. The Service Departments must be free to call upon all forms of civil aviation.

Mr. Powell

Does the Minister agree that the voluntary action of charter companies in providing auxiliary transport squadrons makes it incumbent upon him to give them a fair chance of participating in transport for defence purposes in peace-time?

Mr. Shinwell

That was not exactly the Question asked, but we shall be glad to avail ourselves of their services.