HC Deb 30 July 1958 vol 592 cc1336-7
13. Mr. Leavey

asked the Secretary of State for Air what progress has been made in discussions with the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation regarding the provision of facilities for private and commercial flying at Biggin Hill when Croydon Aerodrome is closed.

Mr. Ward

My right hon. Friend and I are doing our best to work out arrangements which will allow an approach to the civil firms and clubs affected by the closure of Croydon, but it is not at present possible to announce a detailed scheme.

Mr. Leavey

I am obliged to my right hon. Friend for that reply, but I feel sure that he will agree that it does not take us very much further. Is he aware that there is a suspicion of an idea that the Royal Air Force is being a little dog-in-the-manger in its attitude regarding the use of Biggin Hill by civilian aircraft operators? Will he therefore keep at the subject so that we may look forward to an announcement which will remove this long-continuing doubt and uncertainty?

Mr. Ward

I can assure my hon. Friend that we are not being the least dog-in-the manger about it. We are very keen to help these people. I am in close touch with my right hon. Friend the Minister of Transport on the matter, but there are some practical difficulties, which we shall try to overcome as soon as possible.

Mr. Beswick

In the course of his discussions with his right hon. Friend, will the Minister still be considering the possibility of using Hendon for light civil aircraft?

Mr. Ward

No, Sir. Hendon has great disadvantages, as the hon. Member knows. It is completely surrounded by houses, and it is in the airways passage.