§ 3. Mr. Shepherdasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Civil Aviation if he is aware of the fact that a cosmic research balloon was flying over London for some time causing concern to aircraft; and what steps are being taken to prevent a repetition of this danger.
§ Mr. BeswickI have no evidence that a cosmic research balloon has been flying over London causing concern to aircraft, but if the hon. Member has any relevant evidence probably he would let me know. As I stated in reply to the hon. Member for Altrincham and Sale (Mr. Erroll) on 26th July last, free balloons are subject to the Rules of the Air set out in Schedule 2 of the Air Navigation Order, 1949. As an added safeguard, an order is in preparation requiring the prior permission of the Minister for the flight of free balloons.
§ Mr. ShepherdDoes the hon. Gentleman know that this balloon was over London, that pilots approaching London were warned of it and were very concerned about the whole affair? As I understand that a balloon twice as big is now being made, would the hon. Gentleman make sure that it does not come over London next time?
§ Mr. BeswickThe order I mentioned will deal with the balloon twice as big. As to the alarm caused to pilots, careful inquiries have been made and no pilot has expressed such concern.