§ 40. Mr. Rankinasked the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation how many aircraft were diverted to Prestwick on 30th and 31st January owing to the closing down of London Airport; how many passengers were involved in the diversions; and what extra staff were engaged.
§ Mr. NeaveLondon Airport was not closed. Twelve aircraft, carrying 372 passengers, were diverted to Prestwick. No additional staff were employed by my right hon. Friend's Department.
§ Mr. RankinDoes the Minister recognise once again the debt we owe to Prestwick? While we in Scotland welcome the decision now to go ahead with the 500-yard extension of the runway in order to handle Britannias, can the hon. Gentleman tell us when the 2,000-yard extension to deal with the turbo-jet airliners of the 1960s will be commenced so that Prestwick can still have at least a secondary position to London Airport?
§ Mr. NeaveI have answered the hon. Member's Question. If he wishes to ask further details about the runway at Prestwick and will put down another Question, I shall be glad to answer it.