§ 49. Mr. Rankinasked the Minister of Aviation whether negotiations between his representatives and those of Glasgow Corporation on the new civil aerodrome at Abbotsinch have now been successfully concluded; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. RankinIs it not the case that some form of arrangement has been successfully concluded? Can the hon. Gentleman tell me when he expects that the terms of settlement governing that arrangement might be made available to the House?
§ Mr. MartenI would not deny that negotiations have gone fairly satisfactorily so far, but there is, I think, a meeting of the Finance Committee of the Glasgow Corporation later this week, and another meeting later this month. I would not wish to say anything which would embarrass it.
§ Sir T. MooreCould my hon. Friend say what proportion of the £3 million to £4 million Glasgow Corporation is willing to pay to make Abbotsinch Airport suitable for the heaviest aircraft now in use?
§ Mr. Martento answer that question would be to reveal the state of the negotiations which are at the moment sub judice.
§ Mr. RankinCould the hon. Gentleman say whether or not there is even a figment of truth in the question which has just been put to him?
§ Mr. MartenThere may or may not be a figment of truth, but I think that patience is the greatest virtue in this situation.