§ 8. Mr. Youngerasked the President of the Board of Trade why he has decided to direct the Air Transport Licensing Board to refuse applications by private carriers for transatlantic services.
§ Mr. J. P. W. MallalieuMy right hon. Friend has done so only in respect of those applications, or parts of applications, which would have involved the negotiation with other Governments of traffic rights which it would be inexpedient for the time being to seek. Six applications are now before the Air Transport Licensing Board.
§ Mr. YoungerIs not the Minister aware that the British share of air transatlantic traffic has been steadily declining and that this regrettable decision will make it virtually certain that this decline will continue? Is he aware that this decision may have a bad effect on Prestwick airport, where there is no congestion and where there is urgent need to increase traffic?
§ Mr. MallalieuI am not sure to which decision the hon. Gentleman is referring. My right hon. Friend took action and I really do not want to discuss the weaknesses and strengths of our bargaining position on particular routes. Other applications are before the Air Transport Licensing Board, including one for traffic from Prestwick.
§ Mr. CorfieldCan the hon. Gentleman give some idea of the criteria which are adopted in deciding that it is not expedient to make applications to these overseas Governments?
§ Mr. MallalieuIt is really a question of what will be the balance of advantage to this country's civil aviation. If, in asking for a particular traffic route, we consider that it would mean giving away another traffic route which we consider to be more valuable, then we would not do it.