HC Deb 13 May 1963 vol 677 cc933-4
23. Mr. Rankin

asked the Minister of Aviation if the requirements which he originally postulated as to ownership and share of receipts have been embodied in the terms of the agreement he has entered into with Sheraton Motels Ltd. for the building of the proposed hotel at Prestwick Airport.

The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Aviation (Mr. Neil Marten)

Yes, Sir; but my right hon. Friend is now prepared to grant a longer ground lease than was originally offered.

Mr. Rankin

In view of the fact that the plan to deal with the development of Prestwick Airport was originally announced in 1957 or 1958, could the hon. Gentleman tell us what progress has been made in fulfilling that plan and, in particular, when he thinks that work on the hotel buildings will be started?

Mr. Marten

The reason for the delay has been the negotiations to get the agreement with Sheraton Motels. I hope that work will start as soon as this agreement is satisfactorily concluded and that the hotel will be completely by 1965.

Sir T. Moore

Purely as regards the hotel, has my hon. Friend satisfied himself that Mr. Douglas Henderson, who is said to be associated with Sheraton Motels Ltd., has the financial resources necessary to enable him to carry through this rather substantial project, because there is a lot of talk going on in Ayrshire that he has not?

Mr. Marten

The agreement with Sheraton Motels is subject to my right hon. Friend being satisfied as to the financial arrangements and the completion of formal contract within three months. If these conditions are not fulfilled the agreement will lapse.

Mr. Rankin

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that the development of the central terminal building is tied up with the development of the hotel? Did not he observe that fact when he was at Prestwick the other day? Could the hon. Gentleman answer that part of my question?

Mr. Marten

But this is not holding up the development of the central terminal building.