HC Deb 01 February 1973 vol 849 cc1608-10
Q3. Mr. Adley

asked the Prime Minister if he is satisfied with the coordination between the Department of the Environment and the Department of Trade and Industry regarding the development of Foulness Airport.

Mr. Barber

I have been asked to reply.

Yes, Sir. The two Departments work closely together at both ministerial and official level on all matters connected with the airport.

Mr. Adley

In view of the substantial changes that have taken place since the Roskill Commission was set up, particularly regarding the efficiency of the advanced passenger train and the European Economic Community's commitment to regional policy, may I ask my right hon. Friend whether he feels totally confident that in present circumstances this matter should proceed without further review?

Mr. Barber

On the question whether there is a need for another airport, the Roskill Commission unanimously recommended that a third airport was needed, with the first runway operational by 1980. The latest traffic forecasts and the urgent need to reduce the noise problem at existing airports support that concluson.

On regional policy, the development of Maplin is fully consistent with the Government's strategic plan for the South-East.

Mr. Stonehouse

If this country is to maintain its share of inter-continental air traffic is it not vitally necessary that the plans for the development of Foulness should go ahead? Is it not also important that communications between the metropolis and Foulness should have top priority? What is being done about that?

Mr. Barber

I understand that the Department of the Environment takes account of all the environmental and transport aspects—including housing and other services—which are required for the development. The Department is working closely with the Department of Trade and Industry and, indeed, with the other agencies concerned. However, I agree that transport to the airport is a matter of the utmost importance.

Mr. Crouch

May I draw to my right hon. Friend's attention the fact that what concerns us about the development of Malin Sands is the development not only of an airport but of a seaport, and possibly an industrial complex as well?

Will he assure us that in the matter of co-ordination between Departments the Department of the Environment will have the last word?

Mr. Barber

I will draw the attention of both my right hon. Friends to what my hon. Friend has said.