§ 4. Mr. Doddsasked the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation, in view of the progress being made in the production of the jet-propelled helicopter, the Rotodyne, by Fairey Aviation Company, what preparations are being made in London and other large towns for helicopter landing stations.
§ Mr. Lennox-BoydUntil we know more about the requirements of future helicopters, detailed preparation of air-stops cannot take place, but 46 local authorities have been given all existing information on the selection of sites.
§ Mr. DoddsDoes not the right hon. Gentleman realise that, unless there is foresight and enterprise in London, the provincial authorities are hamstrung by not knowing what is to happen in London? Cannot there be some decision on this very important matter?
§ Mr. Lennox-BoydThere is no lack of foresight. It is important to await the development of the twin-engine helicopter to know what sort of landing ground is necessary. The L.C.C. has agreed with the occasional experimental helicopter landings on the South Bank for some years, but a more permanent site must await development of the twin-engine helicopter, and I look with confidence to the Bristol 173, which will begin its trials this summer.
§ Mr. BeswickCan the right hon. Gentleman name any date when this machine named in the Question is likely to be flying?
§ Mr. Lennox-BoydI think it is a most interesting and will, I hope, prove a very valuable machine, but it will be some years before it is in commercial operation.