24. Air Commodore Harveyasked the Minister of Civil Aviation if he will set up a committee to inquire into the cost and management of operating civil airfields.
§ The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Civil Aviation (Mr. R. Maudling)No, Sir. These questions are continually under review so far as they concern the aerodromes under my hon. Friend's control. Indeed, the standards to which they are staffed is at present the subject of a special scrutiny.
Air Commodore HarveyWill my hon. Friend bear in mind that the operation of airfields is costing over £12 million a year, of which £2 million is a loss, and that one airfield in the south of England, to give an example, which had a staff of 19 now has 79; and would he not agree that it would be better to have an aerodrome board similar to the Air Registration Board which would bring about very necessary economies?
§ Mr. MaudlingIn the last four years the total number of aerodrome staff has gone down by 15 per cent., although there has been a very large increase in aircraft movements, the number of passengers and the volume of freight carried. We are well aware of the importance of economy in this matter, and we are carrying out a special scrutiny at this moment.
§ Mr. BeswickWill the hon. Gentleman bear in mind that the only difference between the present arrangements and the system which the hon. and gallant Gentleman has suggested is that the body responsible would not be represented in this House?
§ Mr. G. R. StraussWill the hon. Gentleman bear in mind the great importance of having a prompt and efficient service at these airports?
§ Mr. MaudlingCertainly, we always bear that in mind.