§ 20. Mr. van Straubenzeeasked the Minister of Aviation what representations he has made to the Federal German Government regarding the desirability of the Commission of Inquiry into the Munich air accident of 6th February, 1958, being asked to reconsider the position of Captain J. Thain in the light of the further evidence which has become available since the inquiry was closed.
§ The Minister of Aviation (Mr. Duncan Sandys)My Department submitted to the German Commission of Inquiry further evidence put forward by Captain Thain. The Commission is examining this evidence with a view to deciding whether to reopen the inquiry. I am hoping to be informed of their decision very shortly.
§ Mr. van StraubenzeeWhile thanking my right hon. Friend for that reply, may I ask whether he does not agree that there has been a very considerable delay, certainly since the accident—almost exactly two years ago—and indeed since the submission by Captain Thain and those advising him of important evidence? Would he be good enough to do something as a result of this Question to urge the West German authorities to speed their decision in the professional interests of Captain Thain?
§ Mr. SandysI think I am right in saying that the last statement put in by Captain Thain for consideration by the German Commission was in November. That is not so very long ago. Naturally, we all hope that an early decision will be reached.