HC Deb 12 December 1960 vol 632 cc7-8
7. Mr. Chetwynd

asked the Minister of Aviation what protests he has received against the proposal to introduce a new form on 1st January, 1961 requiring detailed information from arriving and departing passengers by air.

Mr. Rippon

The Airline Operators' Committee has expressed its dislike of the proposal. In addition, two letters of protest have been received from individuals.

Mr. Chetwynd

Have not the Air Corporations expressed themselves in much more forcible language than that about the introduction of this exceedingly stupid form, which may have a deterrent effect on people travelling to this country in British planes? What on earth is its use? Can the hon. Gentleman give one useful reason why we should have this form at this stage?

Mr. Rippon

It has been recognised that the airline operators, including the Corporations, have objected in principle. As for the necessity of the scheme, that is not a matter for my Department. As to its value, I refer the hon. Gentleman to the Answer given by my hon. Friend the Parliamentary Secretary to the Board of Trade on 15th November.

Sir A. V. Harvey

Has the Minister protested to the Board of Trade on behalf of the aviation interests? Will my hon. Friend bear in mind that, if he tries to get the scheme through the House, he will meet a great deal of opposition, even from one or two Members on this side?

Mr. Rippon

As my right hon. Friend told my hon. Friend last week, he has passed on these observations to the Board of Trade.

Mr. Chetwynd

Will legislation be necessary before the form can be introduced?

Mr. Rippon

As my right hon. Friend told the House last week, the scheme is only under consideration. As the Order in Council has not been introduced yet, objectors are still tilting at windmills.