HC Deb 17 March 1965 vol 708 cc1263-4
23. Mr. Peter Mills

asked the Minister of Aviation what proposals he has to provide facilities for private and commercial aircraft to operate in North Devon.

Mr. Stonehouse

Provision of aerodromes to serve local needs is primarily a matter for local interests; the Ministry of Aviation will gladly advise on all technical aspects. Local authorities have already been encouraged to look into the possibility of providing small landing strips for private and business fliers and have been sent particulars of what such strips require.

Mr. Mills

Will the hon. Member bear in mind the real need for commercial aircraft facilities in North Devon—I do not think there are any at the moment—as this is a development area, with new factories springing up? Perhaps he will use his influence to encourage these facilities in North Devon.

Mr. Stonehouse

We will bear that point in mind. If the authorities concerned will send us their proposals we will give them all the help that we can.

Mr. Kenneth Lewis

Is the Minister aware that I regret that I was not here when my Question No. 9 was reached, because of a rather high-flying lunch? Does he really think that it helps private flying to cut the tax concession which private flyers have—

Mr. Speaker

Order. This is an old, unpleasant device, which I hope will not be pursued by anybody.