§ 4. Mr. J. Howardasked the Minister of Aviation what progress has been made in the negotiations with Southampton Corporation regarding its re-purchase of Southampton Airport, Eastleigh; and whether he will make a statement.
§ Mr. RipponThe Southampton Corporation told us on 24th November that it wished to re-purchase the land it formerly owned at Eastleigh, and negotiations with the corporation are about to start.
§ Mr. HowardWill my hon. Friend expedite the transfer of the airfield to any new prospective owner? In view of the importance of maintaining confidence in Southampton Airport, why did his right hon. Friend not land at Southampton on 2nd December as scheduled? What was the source of his information to the effect that the airfield was unfit, because Southampton Airport has been fit for flying on every day this year?
§ Mr. SpeakerThe last part of the hon. Gentleman's supplementary does not appear to arise out of the Answer. The first part was in order.
§ Mr. RipponWe shall certainly press ahead with the negotiations as quickly as possible. As for the suitability of Eastleigh, there is no doubt that it is used for scheduled services throughout the year, although it is a grass airfield. There were particular circumstances on this occasion which led the Minister's pilot to decide to land at Hum.
§ Dr. KingAs a private individual is acquiring this airport, which for financial reasons the Ministry and the local authorities are not prepared to go on with, will the Parliamentary Secretary do everything he can to see that this public-spirited citizen gets all the support of his Department?
§ Mr. RipponI have no knowledge of any negotiations which may subsequently take place between Southampton Corporation and anyone else interested in using the airfield.