§ 32. Mr. Beswickasked the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation if he has yet made any decision with regard to the provision of an airport within the Greater London area for the use of light aircraft.
§ Mr. NeaveNo, Sir, but after full consultation with the Secretary of State for Air, my right hon. Friend hopes that when Croydon closes there will be facilities for such aircraft, including those of the flying clubs, at the R.A.F. Station at Biggin Hill, a few miles outside the Greater London area. A meeting of those concerned will be held there shortly to discuss the possibilities.
§ Mr. BeswickIf it is not possible to take over Biggin Hill—and there are difficulties about that—does the right hon. Gentleman entirely rule out the possibility of keeping open Croydon for the use of light aircraft only?
§ Mr. NeaveAt the moment I have nothing to add to what was said about this matter to the hon. Gentleman on 31st July. My right hon. Friend must adhere to his decision to begin the closing down of Croydon when Gatwick is opened for traffic next spring. Perhaps 943 we had better wait until the various interests have met on the site at Biggin Hill on 22nd November to consider the possibility of accommodation there.
§ Mr. F. HarrisDoes my hon. Friend appreciate that in Croydon there is a very strong feeling that Croydon should not be closed down, and will he give consideration to the representations lately made to him in that direction?
§ Mr. NeaveMy hon. Friend will know that there are strong feelings both ways about the closing down of Croydon. I have nothing to add to what I have already said—that my right hon. Friend must adhere to his decision.