HC Deb 01 May 1961 vol 639 cc887-8
20. Sir A. V. Harvey

asked the Minister of Aviation what steps he is taking to provide additional passenger accommodation for internal airline traffic at London Airport.

Mr. Thorneycroft

The concourse and the airside waiting room are being enlarged. The work will be completed by the end of this month.

Sir A. V. Harvey

May I thank my right hon. Friend for what he has said. Has he received a request from B.E.A. to erect its own facilities at London Airport, and, if so, when does he expect to give the Corporation a reply?

Mr. Thorneycroft

This raises a slightly different point. We are extending the present facilities at London Airport and there is a suggestion from B.E.A. that it might provide its own. This would, I think, have to be looked at in the context of any decision taken with regard to the general question of management at London Airport.

Mr. Rankin

Is the right hon. Gentleman satisfied that the present extension will be adequate for the immense increase which is now taking place in internal traffic?

Mr. Thorneycroft

Certainly not adequate for all time. If air traffic continues to grow, as we hope it will, obviously we shall be continually faced with the need for more accommodation; but this is a proper increase to meet the present problem and will, I think, assist in the matter.