§ 31. Mr. Rankinasked the Minister of Civil Aviation how far the plans for the development of Prestwick Airport have been advanced.
§ The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Civil Aviation (Mr. John Profumo)Plans for a new runway at Prestwick are well advanced, and my right hon. Friend hopes shortly to be able to announce when work can proceed.
§ Mr. RankinMay we expect a full answer from the Minister if I put down a Question after Whitsun; and, in the meantime, could he say if most of the major difficulties which have been created by the proposed plans for the development of the airport have now been overcome?
§ Mr. ProfumoIn answer to the first part of the Question, may I say that if the hon. Gentleman puts down a Question shortly, my right hon. Friend hopes to be able to make a full reply? In answer to the second part of the Question, as the hon. Gentleman knows, there are a great number of difficulties to be overcome, and they are at present under consideration by the Department of Health for Scotland and the local authorities. It is because they have made some headway that I gave the answer I have just given.
§ Mr. ManuelWill the hon. Gentleman indicate to the House what the proposed new development will cost ultimately? Has he any estimate of the total cost?
§ Mr. ProfumoPerhaps the hon. Gentleman will await the statement which my right hon. Friend hopes to make shortly.