§ 1. Mr. Rees-Daviesasked the Minister of Technology what progress he has made in his study regarding the need to provide a suitable cross-Channel hovercraft terminal in south-east England; what are his conclusions; and whether he will publish them now in suitable form.
§ The Joint Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Technology (Dr. Jeremy Bray)We are not conducting such a study, but my right hon. Friend the Minister of Housing and Local Government has reopened his inquiry into the use of Pegwell Bay for a hovercraft terminal.
§ Mr. Rees-DaviesDoes not the Parliamentary Secretary agree that this is a matter upon which he is undertaking some study, because of the great technological importance of the development of the hovercraft industry? Does he not agree that it is an integral part of any such study which should be going on to consider appropriate types so that we do not lose in the race against the United States of America to capture this valuable and important advance?
§ Mr. SpeakerQuestions must be brief.
§ Dr. BrayI appreciate what the hon. Gentleman says, but I think he will agree that the issue in the immediate inquiry is fairly clear. Both operators and the manufacturer of the hovercraft will be giving evidence, and this covers the technical problem from all sides.