HC Deb 22 November 1967 vol 754 cc1307-8
30. Captain Orr

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is satisfied that passenger safety is not imperilled as a result of the dispute between British Overseas Airways Corporation and its pilots; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. J. P. W. Mallalieu

There is no evidence that the dispute is affecting the safety of flight operations. The Corporation is watching the position closely and my officials are in close touch with it; regular flight inspections by Board of Trade officials are being carried out. Should any special safeguards be thought to be necessary they will, of course, be applied.

Captain Orr

How can the Minister be so sure about safety? If the Corporation is not now talking to the pilots how can it get the pilots' advice about such matters as scheduling safety and flying over combatant areas? Would the Minister encourage the Corporation now to talk to the pilots so that we can be certain about passenger safety?

Mr. Mallalieu

On these matters the Corporation is talking to the pilots every day of the week.

Mr. Rankin

Does not this morning's news indicate that B.O.A.C.'s pilots have decided to continue normal duties?

Mr. Mallalieu

I understand that there has been a great improvement in the situation.