HC Deb 30 November 1970 vol 807 cc879-80
12. Mr. Benyon

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry when he now expects to receive the report of the Roskill Commission on the Third London Airport.

Mr. John Davies

I am informed that the Commission hopes to submit its report to the Government by the turn of the year.

Mr. Benyon

Will the Minister state what procedure will be followed thereafter? In view of the importance of this planning decision to the South-East, will the Government allow time for the matter to be debated both in the country and in the House before making up their mind on the Roskill recommendations?

Mr. Davies

When the report is received it will be considered very carefully indeed. We are conscious of the urgency which surrounds this whole problem and also of the desire and the need for it to be fully debated in the House.

Mr. Spearing

Does the right hon. Gentleman agree that there should be adequate time after publication of the report for public interest to debate the matter before it is debated in the House?

Mr. Davies

I understand that there is tremendous public interest in this subject. But the hon. Gentleman should bear in mind that delays can also be of the utmost disturbance to people at large. Therefore, the Government feel that they must act with due promptitude.

Mr. Allason

Would it not be most helpful if my right hon. Friend indicated at the same time as he publishes the report that he would be prepared to put the third London Airport at Foulness and so alleviate any anxiety which will lie with inland sites?

Mr. Davies

I think that we must wait for the report to come out first. Clearly, the Government will be very much moved in their decision by the recommendations in the report.