26. Dr. Bennettasked the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation what progress is now being made towards the provision of a new aerodrome in Kuwait.
§ Mr. ProfumoDiscussions on this subject are in progress with the Ruler of Kuwait.
Dr. BennettCan my hon. Friend say whether any progress has been made, and whether a site has yet been finally chosen?
§ Mr. ProfumoIt would be premature to make any further statement at this juncture.
27 and 28. Dr. Bennettasked the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation (1) if he will take steps to make the aerodrome in Kuwait fit for Viscount aircraft;
(2) if he will take steps to make the aerodrome in Kuwait serviceable in rainy conditions.
§ Mr. ProfumoThe work necessary to make the runway fit for Viscount operations is expected to begin in early March. This work should also reduce the comparatively few occasions when the aerodrome is closed owing to heavy rains.
Dr. BennettWhile it is satisfactory to hear that reply, may I ask my hon. Friend whether he is aware that any ordinary thunderstorms can put the aerodrome out of action, and that anybody bound for Kuwait is liable to find himself literally at sea?
§ Mr. ProfumoI cannot entirely accept that. My statistics show that it is not for more than ten days in the whole year that the rainstorms affect Kuwait Aerodrome in the manner in which my hon. Friend suggests; but we shall, of course, hope that if there is a new aerodrome these conditions will be overcome.