HC Deb 19 November 1962 vol 667 cc818-9
39. Mr. A. Roberts

asked the Minister of Aviation what financial help he proposes to give to the development of the Leeds and Bradford West Riding Airport.

Mr. Amery

I have nothing to add to the reply given to the hon. Member on 19th February, 1962. He was then told that the local authorities had been informed that their application for a grant towards the cost of developing Yeadon Airport could not be approved.

Mr. Roberts

Will the Minister bear in mind the great demand for this airport and that no help whatever has been given by the Ministry to any part of Yorkshire? Can he inform the House if it was his Department which advised a certain Government not to use the Leeds Airport but Manchester Airport?

Mr. Amery

My understanding is that there was an application for financial aid which was made and considered on its merits. Among the criteria adopted is the local authorities' need for help and the authorities were not able to demonstrate such a need.

Mr. Jeger

Will the right hon. Gentleman concede that there is a great demand in Yorkshire for an efficient airport, but this particular one does not fulfil the need? Will he therefore conduct an inquiry as to the best possible site for an all-Yorkshire airport and help it to be established?

Mr. Amery

I think that is a matter for the Yorkshire local authorities.