HC Deb 21 February 1973 vol 851 cc471-2
27. Mr. Wolrige-Gordon

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he is satisfied with the co-ordination of his Department and of those bodies responsible for the development of Dyce airport; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Younger

Yes, Sir. As announced in the Press on 2nd December 1972, Aberdeenshire Planning Committee has granted the Civil Aviation Authority planning permission in principle for new terminal and ancillary facilities at Dyce. I understand that work necessary to allow the operation of jet aircraft on regular scheduled services from April of this year is in hand.

Mr. Wolrige-Gordon

I thank my hon. Friend for that reply. Is he aware that the optimistic nature of that reply is not reflected on the ground and that there seems to be considerable delay in providing the terminal facilities at Dyce to meet the tremendous growth in traffic there which is expected this summer? Can he do as much as possible to expedite matters?

Mr. Younger

I will certainly do anything I can to expedite it, but I am not aware of there being any delay. There has been a full examination. If this confirms the original proposals of the Civil Aviation Authority there will be no delay; and if new or modified plans were to emerge they would be processed with the utmost speed. I agree that it is important to get a quick decision, but it is also important to get the right one.