Supersonic Flight Paths

HC Deb 10 June 1974 vol 874 cc1203-5

4. Mr. Adley

asked the Secretary of State for Trade if he will make a statement on his Department's negotiations with foreign Governments concerning supersonic flight paths.

Mr. Clinton Davis

My Department is pressing forward as rapidly as possible in discussions with the countries concerned. We are making progress, but, as the hon. Gentleman will appreciate, it is not desirable to specify details of these discussions while negotiations are proceeding.

Mr. Adley

I accept the latter point, but has the hon. Gentleman seen the reports in weekend newspapers that certain American politicians, notably in Boston and New York, seem again to be trying to use Concorde, by opposing it, to further their own political ends? Will he have discussions at an early date with his colleague in the French Government so that the Americans can be left in no doubt that playing this game is dangerous?

Mr. Davis

I cannot be answerable for the actions of certain American politicians. The House has sufficient difficulty with some British politicians. Discussions of the nature to which the hon. Gentleman has alluded are a matter for my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Industry and not for my Department.

Mr. Stonehouse

What representations have we made to the American authorities about allowing Concorde to fly into New York, for instance?

Mr. Davis

I have already indicated that at this stage we are not prepared to divulge such details of discussions which are proceeding. I ask my right hon. Friend the Member for Walsall, North (Mr. Stonehouse) to accept my assurance that discussions have proceeded and that my Department is in no way dragging its feet.

Mr. Heseltine

Will the hon. Gentleman explain why, on this one aspect of Concorde, we are told nothing, whilst all the unfavourable aspects are widely publicised?

Mr. Davis

The hon. Gentleman should know better, having been involved himself in this form of discussion, but he seems to have learnt nothing from his own experience. For me to embark now upon detailed disclosure of the proposals which have been made could only harm the situation, and could not possible benefit it. I cannot believe that the hon. Gentleman really thinks that it would be helpful for me to go into greater detail now.