HC Deb 05 June 1957 vol 571 cc1253-4
44. Mr. Beswick

asked the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation what new arrangements or regulations he proposes to make for the assistance of the independent air transport operators.

Mr. Watkinson

I informed the House on 20th February that I was reviewing, the basis of the Colonial coach services to take account of changing conditions. These include the increasing economic difficulty of using older aircraft, constitutional changes limiting the scope for Colonial coach services, and the trend towards very high density seating in the tourist class with corresponding fare reductions for that class of service. As I stated then, I sought the advice of the Air Transport Advisory Council on this problem. I have now received and am studying its recommendations. I am consulting interested colonial Governments also, and I hope to be able to make an announcement as soon as I have their views.

Mr. Beswick

Does the Minister recall that he said last week also I hope before long to bring to this House proposals which, I think, will be of value to private enterprise airlines."—[OFFICIAL REPORT, 29th May, 1957; Vol. 571, c. 401.] When he made that remark, was he referring only to this one route through Africa, which affects, of course, only two of the large operators, or has he any other proposals in mind?

Mr. Watkinson

That remark referred to the recommendations which I have received from the A.T.A.C. which, as I have told the hon. Gentleman. I will announce but cannot announce now because they have not been cleared through colonial Governments.

Mr. Beswick

Would the Minister bear in mind that any proposals that he brings forward will be accepted by this House if they are of value to these private enterprise companies, but only if they do not involve expenditure of public money and do not impede the proper development of the Corporations?

Mr. Watkinson

I quite agree, and I will make an announcement as soon as I can.