HC Deb 20 November 1963 vol 684 cc959-60
3. Mr. Lubbock

asked the Minister of Aviation why he has directed the Air Transport Licensing Board not to hear an application by British European Airways for a new route from Manchester to Genoa.

Mr. J. Amery

I directed the Board in accordance with Section 2(3) of the Civil Aviation (Licensing) Act, 1960. I did so because the air service proposed by British European Airways would, in my opinion, involve the negotiation with the Italian Government of rights which it would be inexpedient to seek at the present time.

Mr. Lubbock

The Minister has merely quoted the wording of Section 2(3) in his reply. Are not we entitled to an explanation of why it is inexpedient for these rights to be sought at this time, and does not he think that this decision will have a very harmful effect on the Corporation which is responsible for carrying the British flag to all the countries of Europe?

Mr. Amery

No, Sir, that is not my view; and had it been my view I should have decided otherwise.

Mr. Lee

How often has the Minister used these particular powers on other occasions? Has there not been something of a scandal about the route to Genoa which, indeed, has cost the public certain amounts of money in the preference given to an independent airline? Will the Minister now say what would be the financial effect if B.E.A. got the right to run to Genoa in order that we may understand what the nation is losing as a result of present policy?

Mr. Amery

I think that these powers have been used on more than one occasion where international agreements have been concerned, but I should like to check that. The hon. Gentleman has asked me the question without notice. I am satisfied that it would be prejudicial to our aviation position at this moment to seek further rights from the Italian Government. This is a judgment which I have to make. It would clearly be unwise for me to go into detail on why an international negotiation would at this moment not be expedient.