HC Deb 01 May 1961 vol 639 cc885-7
19. Mr. Cooper

asked the Minister of Aviation if he intends to order an inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the accident to an aircraft belonging to Air Condor Ltd. at Southend on 22nd April, 1960.

The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Aviation (Mr. Geoffrey Rippon)

No formal inquiry was held, but the Ministry looked into the circumstances of the accident and followed up those matters where action was required in the interests of safety.

Mr. Cooper

Is my hon. Friend aware that that answer is wholly unsatisfactory?

to consultations on the technical points involved in order to try to provide the necessary facilities?

Mr. Thorneycroft

I am never averse to consultation with anyone who chooses to approach me in this matter, but it would be very wrong to give the impression that the Ministry or the Government are prepared to support the provision of a local airport whenever a suggestion is made. That would be indeed a very expensive project.

Following is the list:

Is not he aware that the most serious allegations have been made concerning this flight, that the aircraft was understaffed and the pilot had flown in excess of the permitted hours? Is not it in the best interests of the flying public that an accident of this sort should be properly investigated?

Mr. Rippon

It was an accident in which there were no serious injuries. The question of the pilot's competency and whether there was a breach of Air Navigation Regulations was inquired into. The Director of Public Prosecutions looked at the matter and decided to take no action, though we sent a warning letter to the operator. All these matters were looked into most carefully and the necessary administrative action taken. I cannot believe that it is really necessary to have an inquiry all over again.

Mr. McAdden

Does my hon. Friend realise that the inquiry made one hundred per cent. clear that no responsibility or blame rested on the administration at Southend Airport?

Mr. Rippon

Well, there were some matters to which we drew the attention of the Southend Corporation, in particular to the delay in the dispatch of fire and rescue vehicles. I think that action has now been taken to ensure that this will not happen again.

Mr. Cooper

In view of the unsatisfactory nature of the reply, I beg to give notice that I propose to raise this matter on the Adjournment.