§ 5. Mr. Hector Hughesasked the Minister of Civil Aviation what proposals have been submitted to him for air transport services to carry fresh fish direct from Aberdeen to Birmingham and Billingsgate; and what action he is taking to authorise such services.
§ Mr. ProfumoNo proposals have been submitted by British European Airways or any independent air transport undertaking for the carriage of this traffic. I understand that it is normally impracticable to carry fish on aircraft used for passengers or other types of freight and that the cost of a service catering for fish only would probably prove excessive. It is, nevertheless, open to any independent company to arrange to carry this traffic on a charter basis without the specific authorisation of my right hon. Friend.
§ Mr. HughesIs it not time that the Ministry took the initiative in this matter, because both the fishing industry and the consumers would welcome quicker and better transport of this succulent food? Dyce Airport is waiting to be used, so will the Minister see that it is used?
§ Mr. ProfumoThis, of course, is a matter which should be taken up with the operators concerned. My right hon. Friend has no power to order any company to carry this sort of traffic The 947 hon. and learned Gentleman himself would probably not travel twice on a plane which had carried fish on a previous occasion.
§ Mr. McGovernIs the Minister aware that at times there are some very queer fish to be found on these planes?