§ 24. Mr. Hunterasked the Minister of Aviation what progress has been made by the Spanish authorities in their investigation into the accident to the British owned Transair Dakota aircraft in the Pyrenees on 19th August; when there will be a public inquiry; and when he expects to make a statement as to the cause of the accident.
§ The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Aviation (Mr. Geoffrey Rippon)I understand that the investigation into this accident by the Spanish authorities is nearly complete. I am advised that no public inquiry is contemplated. Until my right hon. Friend receives the Report he cannot of course make any statement about the cause of the accident.
§ Mr. HunterDoes not the Minister agree that a considerable time has now elapsed since the crash, when many young students unfortunately lost their lives? Is he aware that anxiety exists among students' organisations because of this great delay in proceeding with the investigation?
§ Mr. RipponWe certainly appreciate the concern which exists about this tragic accident.