§ 1. Mr. Peter Robertsasked the Minister of Housing and Local Government whether he will reconsider his decision regarding the proposed aerodrome at Sheffield and allow the immediate commencement of this project, which will greatly benefit the social and economic life of Sheffield.
§ The Minister of Housing and Local Government (Mr. Harold Macmillan)The proposed aerodrome on the Redmires site was the subject of a local inquiry. As I informed my hon. Friend, I was unable to agree to its proceeding at this time. It is true that there were substantial objections raised, from the point of view of the amenities of a hospital nearby; but I must say frankly that what weighed with me most in reaching this decision was the undesirability, in my view, of diverting national resources at this moment which are so much needed for constructional work in both the armament, housing and export fields.
§ Mr. RobertsMay I ask my right hon. Friend two questions arising out of that? First, does that mean that if the supplies position gets better, it will be possible to review this project earlier than three years; and, secondly, can we take it that his mind is not closed to the use of the Redmires site as an aerodrome at a later date?
§ Mr. MacmillanI am prepared to review the matter when the time comes.