§ 21. Mr. Beswickasked the Minister of Civil Aviation if a decision has yet been made about the development of Gatwick Airport as the alternate airport in the London area.
§ Mr. MaudlingMy right hon. Friend hopes to be able to make an announcement soon.
§ Mr. BeswickIs the Parliamentary Secretary aware that when the present administration was set up one of the first things that the new Minister said, six months ago, was that he was hoping to make a statement soon about this alternate airport, and can he say, if a decision is not made this year, whether it is certain that there will be an alternate airport ready when Northolt is closed for civil operations?
§ Mr. MaudlingWe are aware of the importance of getting an early decision, and my right hon. Friend hopes to make an announcement very soon.