HC Deb 16 April 1958 vol 586 cc154-6
37. Sir A. V. Harvey

asked the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation when the British Overseas Airways Corporation intends to dispose of its D7C aircraft.

The Joint Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Transport and Civil Aviation (Mr. Airey Neave)

In consultation with British Overseas Airways Corporation, the Government are at present considering the future of these aircraft. As soon as a decision is reached, my right hon. Friend will inform the House.

Sir A. Harvey

Will my hon. Friend bear in mind that my right hon. Friend who is now Minister of Pensions and National Insurance gave an assurance to this House when these aircraft were ordered and paid for in gold and dollars that they would be sold back again for dollars when the Britannias were able to fill the bill? Will he give the House an assurance that very soon additional orders will be placed for Britannias, that the D7C aircraft will be sold and British aircraft put on the route?

Mr. Neave

I appreciate what my hon. Friend says, but, of course, since 1955, when this arrangement was made, the circumstances have somewhat changed, in that so far B.O.A.C. has had ten Britannia 312s delivered and eight are still to come. I will certainly bear in mind what my hon. Friend says.

    cc155-6
  1. Stansted Airport 170 words