HC Deb 13 November 1957 vol 577 cc941-2
31. Mr. Beswick

asked the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation what steps he proposes to take to ensure that the increasing use of Northolt Airport for military services will not reduce the safety standards for civil aircraft using London Airport.

Mr. Watkinson

Military aircraft using Northolt may enter and leave the London Terminal Control Zone either in accordance with civil procedures or through two corridors of limited height in which some radar surveillance is provided. The use of these corridors is restricted when London Airport traffic is taking off or landing through the approaches to Northolt.

Mr. Beswick

Does the Minister agree that it is an extraordinary fact that here we have a situation in which the civil services left Northolt in part because of the safety difficulties, and yet the military use of Northolt is now increasing? Can he give an assurance that he is protesting to the military authorities against their decision to bring fresh operations to Northolt?

Mr. Watkinson

We have recently had another look at this matter, and I think that some of the alterations which have been made in the drill and arrangements will meet the case. However, I agree with the hon. Member that we cannot have risks run at London Airport with civil aircraft, due to near misses and so on, through unregulated traffic around the airport.

Mr. Mikardo

Has the right hon. Gentleman been absolutely satisfied by his colleagues responsible for the military traffic that there is no other aerodrome which can be used for that purpose where these dangers would not arise?

Mr. Watkinson

That point is always kept under examination, but I am satisfied at the moment that the new arrangements which we have made should work satisfactorily. However, I will keep that under review.

Mr. Beswick

Is the Minister telling the House that control of the Metropolitan area rests with the civil authorities, both for civil and military aircraft?

Mr. Watkinson

We work it together, as we should. What I am saying is that as London Airport traffic grows, and it grows steadily every year, we shall have to take increasing precautions to see that there is no interference from aircraft using surrounding aerodromes.