Air Transport Licence (Teesside— Amsterdam)

HC Deb 13 November 1972 vol 846 cc19-20

11. Mr. Tinn

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what appeal he has received regarding the refusal of an air transport licence for the operation of day-return scheduled flights between Teesside airport and Amsterdam.

Mr. Michael Heseltine

None, Sir.

Mr. Tinn

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that there is great concern on Teesside at the refusal of a licence? Can he give a firm assurance that there is no intention to reduce or to curtail services from Teesside for the benefit of Newcastle airport, because any policy of running down Teesside will frustrate the vigorous efforts which the airport authorities have been making, efforts to develop services from Amsterdam?

Mr. Heseltine

I am sure the hon. Gentleman appreciates that matters of that sort are for the Civil Aviation Authority.