38. Mr. C. I. Orr-Ewingasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer the annual cost in foreign exchange of supplying petrol carnets for private flyers; and why he cancelled this facility, in view of the serious repercussions which this will have on the number of private aircraft and reserve pilots available in an emergency.
§ Mr. R. A. ButlerNo accurate information is available. The facility referred to has not been cancelled. Arrangements were made to ensure that applications could be seen by the Exchange Control Authorities so that the rate of expenditure could, if necessary, be controlled. As a result of my inquiries, I have decided to allow petrol and oil to the annual value of £50 to be supplied abroad to private flyers. Special facilities will be available for flights for business purposes.
Mr. Orr-EwingIs my right hon. Friend aware that this reconsideration and concession will give very great satisfaction to the flying clubs and to private Members who have been worried at this extra restriction on their activity?