HC Deb 05 December 1960 vol 631 cc849-50
40. Mr. Rankin

asked the Minister of Aviation what he proposes to do with the Princess flying boats.

Mr. Thorneycroft

I propose to offer them for sale on the open market.

Mr. Rankin

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that it is suggested that a company has been formed to purchase these three aircraft provided that it can purchase the right to routes along with the aircraft? Is that the case, and, if so, will the right hon. Gentleman refuse to entertain such an offer, because the provision is the business of the Air Transport Licensing Board?

Mr. Thorneycroft

I should think there would be some difficulty with a composite contract of that character. I should like to study it before making a reply.

Mr. J. Howard

Is my right hon. Friend aware that these flying boats have been lying in Southampton Water for a considerable time and that proposals have been, I understand, put forward for operating them on a route? Can my right hon. Friend say whether these negotiations are still alive?

Mr. Thorneycroft

The Question refers only to the matter of their disposal and not to the routes, which is quite a separate matter. I have answered the Question on the Order Paper. If there is some matter regarding a particular route, I should like to see a Question on the Order Paper.