HC Deb 20 February 1957 vol 565 cc417-8
25. Mr. Rankin

asked the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation what runway extension is proposed for Prestwick Airport in order to make it available for use by aircraft like the Boeing 707 and the Douglas DC-8.

Mr. Watkinson

I cannot yet add anything to the reply given to my hon. Friend the Member for East Aberdeenshire (Sir R. Boothby) on 24th October, 1956.

Mr. Rankin

Does the Minister remember that about three weeks ago he said that at least we were getting a new control tower at Prestwick? On the instalment plan, I thought he might now give the extended runway. Does he not realise that Prestwick Airport, unless there is an extension of the third runway, will not be capable of use by these large new modern aircraft? Will he go into this matter and let us know exactly what is the position in regard to the runway extension at Prestwick?

Mr. Watkinson

I can tell the hon. Gentleman now. There is a small extension being made.

Mr. Rankin

I understand that.

Mr. Watkinson

But the big extension really must wait as it has to wait in all other international airports, until we know more about the runway performance of these new jet aircraft.