42. Mr. Slaterasked the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation what consideration he is giving to the setting up of a civil airport in the Tees-side area; and what representations have been made to him on this matter from Tees-side.
§ Mr. NeaveNone, Sir, but two local bodies have informed my right hon. Friend of their interest, and I understand that they are investigating the possibilities of regional support for such a project. We shall, of course, consider any representations they or any other interested parties may make.
Mr. SlaterDoes not the hon. Member agree that his Department should take a great interest in this matter on behalf of the Tees-side, in consideration of what it has done in the past? Is he aware that representations were made to his Department recently by a deputation from the Tees-side, led by my hon. Friend the Member for The Hartlepools (Mr. D. Jones), regarding what should be done for the Tees-side in this matter?
§ Mr. NeaveThe last we heard about this matter was on 28th January, when we understood from the Tees-side Industrial Development Board that the North-East Industrial and Development Association would be considering this matter. If we hear from it further we will consider its representations.