HC Deb 14 June 1967 vol 748 cc559-60
34. Mr. Stodart

asked the President of the Board of Trade how many aircraft were diverted from Turnhouse Airport, Edinburgh, because of cross-winds during 1966; and by what date in this year he estimates that that number will be exceeded.

Mr. J. P. W. Mallalieu

The number of air transport flights diverted or cancelled because of crosswinds during 1966 was 65. This number has already been exceeded in 1967 because of the exceptional weather in February and March.

Mr. Stodart

Is not that a most deplorable reply in view of the utter lack of consideration given by the Government to the need for an extra runway at Turn-house? When are the Government going to get down to giving this important airport proper facilities?

Mr. Mallalieu

With the present Government, Edinburgh Corporation has been in almost continuous discussion about the future of the airport. We are hoping to reach a final decision with the Airports Authority. I agree with the hon. Gentleman that it is necessary to do something about Turnhouse.

Miss Harvie Anderson

Is the hon. Gentleman aware of the number of occasions that aircraft only got in at Turn-house at the second or third attempts in high gust wind conditions? In view of the narrowness of the safety margin in these instances, will he please get this runway quickly before there is another disaster?

Mr. Mallalieu

I assure the hon. Lady that no risks whatever are taken about getting into this airport. That is why there are so many diversions.