HC Deb 06 November 1968 vol 772 cc884-5
21. Mr. Onslow

asked the President of the Board of Trade what proposals he has to apply the airport consultation procedure provided under the Civil Aviation Act, 1968.

Mr. William Rodgers

We have started consultations with associations representative of aerodrome owners and, in the light of these, intend to designate aerodromes where there is evidence of public need and demand. A few requests for designation have already been received.

Mr. Onslow

Should not the procedure be advertised, since aerodrome owners are less likely than the public to want to see it introduced? Will the hon. Gentleman do his utmost to see that the Act is made use of?

Mr. Rodgers

I will see that the provisions of the Act are known as widely as possible. I shall also bear in mind what the hon. Gentleman himself said during our debates on the Bill—that these provisions should be operated in a reasonable and sensible way.

Dr. John Dunwoody

Would not the profitability of British civil airline operators be increased if they were more adventurous in opening up new routes in Britain?

Mr. Rodgers

I do not think that that would necessarily follow.