§ 17. Mr. R. Carr asked the President of the Board of Trade in what respects his policy for the rôle of the nationalised 495 Corporations and independent airlines differs from that announced by his predecessor on 17th February, 1965.
§ Mr. JayThere has been no change in the Government's policy, but I do not exclude the possibility of change if experience and our continuing study of the issues show it to be desirable.
§ Mr. CarrIs the Minister not aware that the policy does not seem to have been adhered to to the extent that more freedom has been granted to independent airlines on domestic routes? While we welcome this on this side of the House, does he not think that there is a need for more clarity so that both the nationalised and independent airlines can plan ahead with more certainty?
§ Mr. JayI think that there is need for very careful study of this admittedly rather difficult problem, but until we reach precise conclusions I think that it is right to continue the policy laid down by my predecessor.