HC Deb 23 June 1965 vol 714 cc1746-7
24. Mr. McMaster

asked the Minister of Aviation if he will now increase the number of Belfast strategic freighter aircraft on order from Short Brothers and Harland.

Mr. Jenkins

I have nothing to add to the reply given to the hon. Member for Belfast, West (Mr. Kilfedder) on 1st February last.

Mr. McMaster

In view of the news surrounding the announcement of the large Russian 700-seater aircraft, will the Minister consider the possibility of using this aircraft as a high density aeroplane to be used by B.E.A. and thus reduce fares, and order perhaps one or two of these aircraft for use by B.E.A. on domestic routes?

Mr. Jenkins

I take it that the hon. Gentleman means order the Belfast and not the Russian aircraft. The form of his question was couched in the other direction.

I have discussed this with B.E.A. I am very anxious, if it is at all possible, to find further use for the Belfast, but, as I have never disguised from the hon. Gentleman or from the House, this is not an easy problem.