§ 6. Mrs. Braddockasked the Secretary of State for Commonwealth Relations what results he has achieved, following consultations with the Governments of Australia and New Zealand, in seeking to arrange low-cost charter flights for members of the Australia and New Zealand Parents and Relatives Association, who wish to visit their families who have emigrated to Australia and New Zealand.
§ Mr. BottomleyThe question of the fares to be charged on charter flights to Australia and New Zealand is entirely a matter for decision by the Governments of Australia and New Zealand.
I understand that the New Zealand Government are prepared to consider individual applications for charter flights 1415 the Australian Government have been unable to agree to such flights with fares at the low levels so far proposed.
§ Mrs. BraddockWill my right hon. Friend pursue this matter, because in this country there are very many parents and other relatives of people who have emigrated to Australia and New Zealand who have never seen their people since, although arrangements could be made for them to do so? Arrangements are made with Canada and America for cheap flights. Would my right hon. Friend pursue the matter with the Australian and New Zealand Governments to see if it is possible to do anything on those lines? If that is not possible, will he see whether some arrangement could be made with a British flying company for charter flights? I am certain that they would not lose by doing that.
§ Mr. BottomleyAs my hon. Friend knows, I am most anxious to help. I have been in touch with the Australian and New Zealand Governments. I am sure that they are fully aware of the considerations involved.