HC Deb 19 July 1961 vol 644 c1226
25. Mr. Slater

asked the Secretary of State for Air how long he expects that Middleton St. George Airport will be required for Royal Air Force purposes.

Mr. Amery

This airfield will be needed for operational flying for as long as we can foresee.

Mr. Slater

Since the Minister is not in a position to give an estimate of how long this airport will be required for Air Force facilities, is he aware that in all probability application will be made for civil flying for the North-East? Will he do whatever he can to assist, if he should be called in for consultations on this matter?

Mr. Amery

I recognise the limitations of Ministerial foresight. I was on Tees-side the other day, and I know the strength of feeling that exists up there, but it is my first duty to see that the operational aircraft of the Royal Air Force have the necessary facilities, and for the time being I cannot foresee the time when we shall not need this airfield for operational purposes.

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