HC Deb 08 February 1960 vol 617 cc8-9
11. Lieut.-Colonel Bromley-Davenport

asked the Minister of Power what is the general practice of his Department with regard to making requests to British European Airways Corporation and British Overseas Airways Corporation for priority seating in aircraft in respect of passengers booked by his Department; and in how many cases such priority was demanded during 1959.

Mr. Wood

My Department does not make such requests. Priority was never asked for in 1959.

Lieut.-Colonel Bromley-Davenport

Is my right hon. Friend aware that in certain instances priority is given to local officials of these nationalised boards who are led ahead of all the other passengers in order that they can obtain the best seats in the aircraft? Does he agree that that is extremely annoying to their fellow passengers, who already pay them quite large salaries, and all they have had in return for these large salaries is increased costs and worse services? Finally, would it not be more tactful if, until they make a profit, these gentlemen travelled with the luggage?

Mr. Wood

My hon. and gallant Friend has asked about the general practice of my Department. His supplementary question seems to be a matter which concerns the nationalised boards. It certainly does not concern me.

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