HC Deb 26 February 1962 vol 654 cc919-21
17 and 18. Mr. C. Johnson

asked the Minister of Aviation (1) how many applications have been made to him under the provisions of Article 68 of the Air Navigation Order. 1960, in connection with inclusive tour holidays from this country for the year 1962; and what conditions are imposed by him in granting such applications;

(2) if, when granting applications by foreign operators for permits to operate inclusive tour services from this country under Article 68 of the Air Navigation Order, 1960, he will make it a condition that any advertisement of such tours shall include a statement that the airline operator is a foreign firm or company.

Mr. Woodhouse

Applications in respect of 65 services had been received by 23rd February. Permits are being issued subject to the same conditions as those imposed on our own airlines operating the same type of service. These include a requirement that from the 1962 winter season all tour advertisements will specify the airline operator and the type of aircraft to be used.

Mr. Johnson

Can the Parliamentary Secretary say whether the figures which he has given show any marked increase over those of previous years? Is he satisfied that applications are made to his right hon. Friend well before these tours are advertised? Secondly, may we assume that in the case of any change in the conditions imposed by the Air Transport Licensing Board the Ministry will make similar changes in respect of foreign aircraft? Lastly, as applications to the Board and the results are advertised, are any steps taken to see that the results of applications to the Ministry are also given publicity?

Mr. Woodhouse

The number of applications made so far this year is still smaller than the number granted last year, but it is still early in the year. As for advertisements, it is not in our power to prevent anybody from advertising what he chooses to advertise, although it must be clearly understood—and I hope that this exchange will help to make it understood—that the appearance of an advertisement does not guarantee that a permit will be issued. In the case of any changes in the practice of the Licensing Board, we should certainly confer with it, and our intention would normally be to follow the same practices in respect of foreign operators. It has not been our practice, hitherto, to publish the results of applications, because they have been extremely few in number, but I can tell the hon. Member that, so far this year, six applications have been withdrawn, two rejected, and five issued, and 52 are under consideration.

Mr. Lee

Does the Minister know that some advertisers have agreed with foreign airlines to use their aircraft and, in order to put themselves right with the law, then ask people who write to them as a result of their advertisements to agree to join a club which the advertisers have formed? This apparently puts them right under the law. Will the hon. Member look into the matter?

Mr. Woodhouse

I had not observed the point which the hon. Member has drawn to my attention, but I will certainly look into it.