§ 25. Mr. Manuelasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what representations he has had from the three Scandinavian Governments regarding S.A.S. flights to be allowed through Prestwick Airport; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. P. ThomasThe Ambassadors of Norway, Denmark and Sweden called on my right hon. Friend on 9th March to urge that discussions on the Scandinavian Airlines System's traffic rights at Prestwick should be reopened. He is at present considering these representations in consultation with my right hon. Friend the Minister of Aviation.
§ Mr. ManuelThe hon. Gentleman will be aware of the great concern in Scotland and among all Scottish Members of Parliament. Is he aware that Prestwick Airport is the second International Airport of the United Kingdom and that any action that reduces the frequency or the numbers of international flights through Prestwick, or debars any airline because of imposed conditions from using Prestwick, decreases the stature and lowers the prestige of Prestwick? May I take it that the Foreign Secretary is prepared to do everything he can to make certain that we hold S.A.S. flights through Prestwick?
§ Mr. ThomasI can assure the hon. Member that Her Majesty's Government are taking full account of all the matters he mentioned in deciding what action should be taken about S.A.S. services.