HC Deb 13 February 1961 vol 634 cc921-2
28. Mr. Rankin

asked the Minister of Aviation why he has not appointed a representative from Glasgow Corporation to his Scottish Advisory Committee for Civil Aviation.

Mr. Rippon rose

Mr. Rankin

A satisfactory Answer please.

Mr. Rippon

The hon. Member has not heard it yet.

The Scottish local authority associations were consulted by my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Scotland. On this occasion there was no representative of the Glasgow Corporation amongst the names suggested.

Mr. Rankin

That is rather unfortunate. Did the Minister simply accept that advice and leave the matter as it was? Glasgow has formerly had a representative. Perhaps the hon. Gentleman could clear up any little background knowledge with which I am unfamiliar?

Mr. Rippon

Certainly, I am glad to help the hon. Member. The Committee is appointed by the Minister after consultation with the Secretary of State for Scotland. The Secretary of State for Scotland takes suggestions from a number of bodies, including the Association Of Counties of Cities. On previous occasions a name has been suggested from Glasgow, but on this occasion none was suggested. There are, however, a number of members of the Committee closely associated with Glasgow and its interests will not be overlooked. There are only sixteen members of the Committee and not every district in Scotland can be represented directly.

Mr. Strachey

Is the Scottish Advisory Committee, with or without the representatives of Glasgow, helping to get into operation the new airport serving Dundee?

Mr. Rippon

I am sure that it will be very helpful on all matters, including that.