HC Deb 23 June 1965 vol 714 c1731
6. Mr. Russell Johnston

asked the Minister of Aviation whether he will initiate research into the development of a light aircraft suitable for operation in the seven crofting counties.

The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Aviation (Mr. John Stone-house)

There are already a number of British aircraft which can operate into existing airfields in the seven crofting counties and at least one British aircraft at present under development could use the smallest airstrip.

Mr. Russell Johnston

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that while this is true I was thinking more in terms of smaller landing strips? Is he aware that there is quite a wide demand in other parts of the world, in Africa and Australasia, for example, for light aircraft of the kind which would suit this requirement? Will he assure me that the Ministry will do its best to ensure that the development of light aircraft will be encouraged in this country? I think the Americans are liable to run away with this, so that this would meet a domestic requirement and possibly at the same time meet an export requirement.

Mr. Stonehouse

That is our wish. There are several new exciting developments going ahead, and at least one of these will be for an aircraft that will be able to use extremely small airfields.