HC Deb 11 May 1966 vol 728 cc382-3
11. Mr. Younger

asked the Minister of Aviation what arrangements he made, before handing over Prestwick Airport to the British Airports Authority, concerning reciprocal agreements between this country and foreign countries for the payment of landing fees for military aircraft.

46. Mr. Emrys Hughes

asked the Minister of Aviation what consultations he had, and what agreements were reached, with the United States authorities over the payment of landing fees, before the British Airports Authority assumed responsibility for Prestwick Airport.

Mr. Mulley

Before the British Airports Authority took over Prestwick Airport it was decided that they could not be expected to continue the waiver on landing charges for certain military aircraft (including the Royal Air Force and U.S.A.F.) since they have a statutory obligation to conduct their operations on a commercial basis. I am considering the implications of this with my noble Friend the Minister of Defence for the Royal Air Force. The U.S.A.F., of course, continue to enjoy the free use of navigation services and of land and buildings.

Mr. Younger

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that, as a result of no arrangement having been made about this before the hand-over, there is at present virtually no use of Prestwick Airport by the U.S. Air Force and the airport will lose about £150,000 a year? Will he see our Defence Department, which has a reciprocal agreement with the Americans, and make arrangements with the U.S. Air Force to bring it back to Prestwick?

Mr. Mulley

As I said, I am discussing this with the Minister of Defence for the Royal Air Force but my information is that the U.S. Air Force has no immediate intention of ceasing operations at Prestwick.

Mr. Emrys Hughes

Is my right hon. Friend aware that the Americans as well as anyone are entitled to pay a fair rent for Prestwick Airport and if no one pays a fair rent Prestwick Airport will close down, which will be to the great indignation of the hon. Member for Ayr (Mr. Younger)?

Mr. Monro

Does the right hon. Gentleman agree that if the U.S. Air Force does leave Prestwick Airport, as seems likely, it will have a severe effect on the economy of Scotland?

Mr. Mulley

The argument seems to be about whether the U.S. Air Force should pay or not, and that if it continues using the airport without paying any fees that would not help the airport. I am dealing with this matter and will report to the House on the conclusions reached.