HC Deb 16 February 1966 vol 724 cc1303-4
16. Mr. Bruce-Gardyne

asked the Minister of Aviation if he will introduce legislation to empower him to give financial guarantees to commercial airlines in order to encourage them to develop services to cities in Scotland already possessing an airstrip.

Mr. Mulley

No, Sir. Subject to licensing, this is a matter for commercial enterprise.

Mr. Bruce-Gardyne

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the Scottish Planning Council has re-examined the scope for air services to Dundee? Is he further aware that, without a guarantee of the kind suggested in my Question, no such service will be forthcoming?

Mr. Mulley

It would be a wrong policy for there to be subsidy of civil air services of the kind the hon. Gentleman refers to. While I sympathise with Dundee's desire for such a development, unfortunately airline operators have not accepted that the traffic is adequate in view of the cost. However, an independent operator, Strathallan Air Services, has applied for a licence for scheduled services between Dundee, Edinburgh and Prestwick and we must see what the outcome is of that application.

Mr. Manuel

Will my right hon. Friend keep closely in mind the fact that B. E. A. is running many uneconomic internal air services in Scotland?

Mr. Mulley

I cannot answer that point today because, as my hon. Friend will perhaps know, B.E.A. has lodged an appeal against the Air Transport Licensing Board's decision not to increase fares on the Highlands and Islands services. I cannot, therefore, express a view until I have the report of the Commissioner's inquiry.