HC Deb 11 May 1966 vol 728 cc388-9
16. Sir C. Osborne

asked the Minister of Aviation, in view of the increasing theft and pilfering at airports, which is resulting in the loss of foreign business, if he will issue a general direction to the Airports Authority, after discussion with the leaders of the unions, who so far have opposed regular searches and spot checks on workers, to take steps to stop this organised pilfering; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Snow

No, Sir. This is a matter within the management responsibility of the British Airports Authority, and would not be an appropriate subject for a general direction under the Airports Authority Act, 1965. I appreciate however, the hon. Member's concern about this subject and I will draw his remarks to the attention of the Authority.

Sir C. Osborne

Is the Minister aware that London Airport is getting such a bad name for thieving that one of the Swiss insurance companies advised its customers not to use London Airport and that this is giving our country a very bad name in Europe. Would the hon. Member—[HON. MEMBERS: "No."] Would the hon. Member—[HON. MEMBERS: "No."] Would the hon. Member—

Mr. Speaker

Order. Hon. Members should not waste time by foolish interventions.

Sir C. Osborne

I am obliged, Mr. Speaker, especially when they come from Scotland. Would the hon. Member look at the practical suggestions which were published in the Economist?

Mr. W. Baxter

On a point of order. The hon. Member tried to cast a reflection upon the honesty and integrity of Scottish Members by his remarks.

Mr. Speaker

That is not a point of order for me. Mr. Snow.

Mr. Snow

Yes, Sir. We knew about the observations of the Swiss insurance company, and we are taking its report into account and examining it. If the hon. Member refers to Section 11 of the Act which I have mentioned he will see that it gives powers to the Authority for the sort of stopping and searching about which he is talking.