HC Deb 06 July 1966 vol 731 cc410-1
15. Mr. Onslow

asked the Minister of Aviation what steps he is taking, in the interests of maintaining the sales at home and abroad of the British aerospace industry, to publicise its achievements.

Mr. Mulley

My Department, in conjunction with the other Departments concerned, assists the industry's own extensive publicity effort in a number of ways, for example, exhibitions such as the recent joint Ministry of Aviation/S.B.A.C. contribution to the Hanover Air Show, films, and the distribution of publicity material overseas through the official Overseas Services. On 3rd to 6th June I sponsored a Conference of Commonwealth Airlines at which the airlines had full opportunity to discuss their requirements with representatives of the British aircraft industry.

Mr. Onslow

While the House will be grateful for that Answer, could the Minister say whether he saw or has called for a transcript of the B.B.C's programme "Twenty-four Hours" of 22nd June, and what action he has taken to make representations to the B.B.C. against yet another example of unbalanced knocking at British achievements in the aircraft industry?

Mr. Mulley

I have no responsibility for B.B.C. programmes, and on the night in question I did not see it because at the invitation of the S.B.A.C. I was present at their dinner as their guest.

Mr. R. Carr

Is the right hon. Gentleman taking steps to look at the transcript? Is he aware that it really was a most serious denigration of the British aircraft industry? While he has no responsibility for the B.B.C., should he not make representations to them?

Mr. Mulley

I have not seen the transcript. [HON. MEMBERS: "Why not?] I have discussed the complaint with the Society, which arranged the programme with the B.B.C., and I know that their complaint is being considered by the B.B.C.

Mr. Rankin

Would it not be easier to publicise British achievements in aerospace if instead of having six Ministries doing the job we had one Ministry?

Hon. Members

Hear, hear.

Mr. Speaker

Mr. Onslow for the next Question.

Hon. Members

Answer.

Mr. Onslow

On a point of order. In view of the unsatisfactory nature of that reply, I beg to give notice that I shall seek to raise the matter on the Adjournment—before the Minister has disappeared.

Mr. Speaker

I hope that hon. Members will give notices of intention to raise matters on the Adjournment conventionally. Otherwise such notices can take up a lot of time.