HC Deb 11 July 1956 vol 556 cc401-2
56. Mr. Farey-Jones

asked the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation whether, in view of the risk of collision which may arise between aircraft flying in controlled air spaces under visual flight rules, particularly under marginal conditions, he will now make it obligatory for all aircraft flying in controlled air spaces, under both instrument and visual flight rules, to do so under air traffic control clearances.

Mr. Watkinson

I have nothing at present to add to the Answer I gave the hon. Member for Uxbridge (Mr. Beswick) on 6th June, when I said that this whole question was being reviewed.

Mr. Farey-Jones

Does not my right hon. Friend agree that the term "controlled air space" is a complete misnomer if aircraft can operate in that space, and is he not aware that there is an ever-present and growing anxiety among world airline operators, particularly at London Airport, while no action is taken on this matter?

Mr. Watkinson

I quite agree, and we are taking urgent action on this matter. As I think my hon. Friend knows, it is a most technical and difficult matter, and I think we had better look at it carefully before we come to any conclusion.