§ 4. Mr. Onslowasked the President of the Board of Trade whether it is his practice to consult the appropriate local authorities before approving changes in air traffic routes.
§ Mr. Goronwy RobertsNot in every case.
§ Mr. OnslowIs the Minister aware that there is a good deal of confusion about his intentions regarding the routes to be followed by traffic taking off from Heathrow in a westerly direction? Will he undertake to make his intentions known in detail to all local authorities affected and to all hon. Members representing constituencies in the area? Will he confirm that he is willing for his Department to be represented at any public meetings which may be held to discuss these proposals?
§ Mr. RobertsThe hon. Gentleman and most hon. Members know my attitude on the general question of consultation. As regards the specific route which he has in mind, I am studying this with a view to deciding what kind of consultation would be appropriate. I have deputed a member of my Department to attend a public meeting in the past, and I would study any request for doing so in the future.
§ Mr. RankinDoes any legal obligation rest on my right hon. Friend to consult any of the local authorities which may be affected by changes in air routes?
§ Mr. RobertsI do not think there is a legal obligation; but, nevetheless, I regard it very much as an obligation.