HC Deb 26 November 1969 vol 792 cc405-6
14. Dr. Gray

asked the President of the Board of Trade what his present policy is regarding International Air Transport Association fare restrictions.

Mr. Goronwy Roberts

The Government's policy is outlined in paragraphs 60 to 62 of the White Paper on Civil Aviation Policy.

Dr. Gray

Is my right hon. Friend aware that package tours on reputable air carriers are sold in Western Germany at prices considerably less than the normal tourist fares? Will he consider the implications for British tourist agents if the £50 allowance is abolished and these can be purchased freely from this country?

Mr. Roberts

Part of my hon. Friend's supplementary question ranges beyond the responsibilities of my Department, but I take note of what he says about the tourist allowance. If he refers to paragraphs 55 to 59 of the White Paper he will find, with the paragraphs I have referred to, a fairly complete answer to his question.

26. Mr. Corfield

asked the President of the Board of Trade if, in view of the cessation of international control over scheduled air fares on the Atlantic, he will remove all remaining controls over the fares charged by operators of either whole aircraft or inclusive tour charter services operating on this route.

Mr. Goronwy Roberts

I hope that scheduled carriers will agree on a realistic tariff. Until then, fares are controlled by the Governments concerned. The Government's policy on inclusive tour prices and affinity group travel is outlined in paragraphs 55–59 of the White Paper on Civil Aviation Policy.

Mr. Corfield

Is it not quite clear from the White Paper and the Edwards Report that the Government's attitude is that the chartered and inclusive tour fares should be controlled only to the extent that it is necessary to protect the scheduled carriers? As the Question indicates that the scheduled airlines have thrown over their protection, why continue the control?

Mr. Roberts

I could not agree that the scheduled airlines have thrown over this protection. I would be very surprised to learn that they did not want a continuation of the appropriate protection so long as it is needed. These paragraphs indicate the basis on which we may consider removing that.