Heathrow and Gatwick

HC Deb 03 June 1964 vol 695 cc1083-4

27. Sir A. V. Harvey

asked the Minister of Aviation what plans he has for the future development of Heathrow and Gatwick.

Mr. Marten

Our policy is to develop both airports to their fullest capacity. We reckon that a third airport for London will be required in the early 1970s. The plans for Heathrow involve the construction of piers from the passenger buildings, a second short-haul passenger terminal, a new freight area, runway extensions, additional car parking facilities and the redevelopment of the Bath Road frontage. At Gatwick we are doubling the size of the terminal building and extending the runway. Our plans for Gatwick include the construction of an office block over the terminal building, apron and car park extensions, a second runway and a second maintenance area.

Sir A. V. Harvey

While appreciating that the long-term plans will go a considerable way to meet the widespread dissatisfaction about the amenities at London Airport, may I ask my hon. Friend whether he will take into account that this year they are considerably worse than last year—the congestion and lack of space and capacities? Will my hon. Friend take remedial action right away to give passengers at London Airport the reasonable services which they are not getting at the moment?

Mr. Marten

We constantly have this question under review and I go to London Airport from time to time to look at these matters; but it is true to say that the number of people going through London Airport increases greatly each year.

Mr. H. Hynd

Can the hon. Gentleman say whether plans for developments include the provision of retractable gangways such as have been in operation in American airports for a number of years?

Mr. Marten

If the hon. Member is referring to the aero-bridge which joins the aeroplane to the pier, that is a question for the airlines. I understand that B.O.A.C., for example, hopes to bring these into operation as soon as possible.

Mr. Doughty

When will the new runway be completed, and will it enable four-engined jet aircraft to take off fully loaded?

Mr. Marten

I cannot give the completion date. The plans have not been finalised, but I imagine that when they are the runway will cater for modern jets to take off fully loaded.