HC Deb 19 May 1953 vol 515 cc1856-7
20. Mr. D. Jones

asked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury why so much delay occurred in giving a decision about the provision of Customs facilities at Greatham Aerodrome; and why such facilities were refused for the present year, in view of the fact that they were conceded in previous years

The Financial Secretary to the Treasury (Mr. John Boyd-Carpenter)

No delay occurred, and the application was dealt with in 11 days. It is now again under consideration, at the initiative, among others, of the hon. Member. Facilities were refused in view both of the small volume of overseas traffic using this airport, particularly during the two trial periods referred to in the question, and the fact that aircraft can obtain Customs clearance at another airport within 35 miles.

Mr. Jones

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that this representation was first made to the Minister of Civil Aviation who, in turn, got into touch with his Department more than five weeks ago, and that the final refusal was only given two days before the first aircraft was due to fly? Is he further aware that in the season 1952 nearly 1,400 people used this service between Greatham and the Channel Islands? Is he further aware that by this refusal he is depriving 700,000 people of aircraft facilities?

Mr. Boyd-Carpenter

On the question of delay the facts are that the application was made to the Customs and Excise on 6th March and the reply was sent on 17th, that is to say 11 days after. On the merits of the matter, as it is being reconsidered I would prefer not even to appear to prejudice the final decision by entering into an argument with the hon. Gentleman on the points he has just made.

Mr. Slater

Is the hon. Gentleman not aware that great disappointment is being felt on Tees-side by the action that has been taken? In an area which is so industrialised, does he not think that every consideration ought to be given whereby the facilities which can operate and which have been operated, should be allowed to continue to cater for the many people in that area?

Mr. Boyd-Carpenter

Every consideration will be given to this and, I hope, to every application. The House must appreciate that, unless we are to have to ask for increased staffs, there must be a limit in the number of civil airports at which Customs facilities can be given.