§ 14. Mr. Liptonasked the Secretary of State for Air what action he is taking to improve the present control system in order to reduce the risks of collision between military and civil aircraft.
Mr. WardMy right hon. Friend the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation has already announced far reaching plans to provide continuous radar surveillance of all aircraft using the airways over this country. Meanwhile, in conjunction with the civil authorities, arrangements are being made for the increasing use of R.A.F. radar to reinforce existing measures of control in areas where this is of most value.
§ Mr. LiptonI welcome the intention expressed by the right hon. Gentleman to do something about this. Is he aware that the air lanes are more crowded than ever with the addition of high-speed jets? Is he quite satisfied that enough has been done, or will be done, to set up a foolproof control system which will apply to British and American Service aircraft in this country as well as to civil aircraft?
Mr. WardThis is a joint problem, and we are well aware of its importance and urgency. I am working with my right hon. Friend the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation towards a joint solution, and we shall give my right hon. Friend all the help he requires.
§ Mr. LiptonWhen?
§ Mr. de FreitasCan the Minister say whether the Government accept the principle of unified civil and military control?
Mr. WardThe control of the civil airways is a matter for the civil authorities but where special arrangements can be supplemented by existing R.A.F. radar, we are certain that they should be.
§ Mr. BeswickDoes the Minister understand that it is not a question of supplementation but of joint control? Has the right hon. Gentleman seen the resolution passed at Delhi a week ago calling for positive and unified control of both civil and military aircraft?
Mr. WardThe question of joint control is one which we have very much in mind. I am sorry if I misunderstood the supplementary question of the hon. Member for Lincoln (Mr. de Freitas).