HC Deb 22 June 1955 vol 542 cc1306-7
35. Major Anstruther-Gray

asked the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation what consideration he is giving to the need for bringing into operation a civil aerodrome to serve as a port of call between Edinburgh and Aberdeen, in view of the increase in demand for air transport in the east of Scotland.

Mr. Boyd-Carpenter

I am afraid that I have had no indication from any operators of aircraft that such an airport as is suggested by my hon. and gallant Friend is required.

Major Anstruther-Gray

But in view of the fact that there is considerable potential demand on the part of passengers, could my right hon. Friend not use his good offices to encourage some airline to take an interest in this profitable service, if the aerodrome is available?

Mr. Boyd-Carpenter

As I said in answer to the previous Question, I have no power to direct operators to operate services if they do not think that they will be remunerative, but I am always anxious to invite their attention to the desirability of having as many services as possible, including, needless to say, in Scotland.

Mr. Woodburn

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that when we on this side of the House were in office there was a great clamour for private enterprise to be allowed these facilities? Is he raising any objection to private enterprise providing these services?

Mr. Boyd-Carpenter

I am raising no objection whatsoever, and I am glad to say that under the civil aviation policy initiated by my right hon. Friend the present Colonial Secretary there has been a great expansion.