§ 21. Mr. C. Hughesasked the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation how many passengers have been carried to and from Welsh airports during the present year, to the most convenient date; and what percentage increase or decrease has been recorded compared with the same period last year.
§ The Joint Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Transport and Civil Aviation (Mr. John Profumo)The only Welsh aerodrome from which regular services are operated is Cardiff (Rhoose) Airport. During the nine months January-September, 1956, 38,000 passengers were carried to and from this airport, including those in transit. This is an increase of 31 per cent. over the number for the corresponding period of 1955.
§ Mr. HughesDoes not the general position in Wales, and the figures, reveal a disturbing lack of progress in the 1219 Principality by comparison with other parts of the country? Can the Minister approach B.E.A. to see whether additional services can be operated in Wales?
§ Mr. ProfumoThe further development of air services in Wales is a matter for the commercial judgment of the air companies interested, but my right hon. Friend is prepared to consider sympathetically proposals from any company for the operation of new services in the Principality.