§ LORD KILMANYMy Lords, I beg leave to ask the Question which stands in my name on the Order Paper.
§ [The Question was as follows:
§ To ask Her Majesty's Government what response is being made to the proposal of the Scottish Development Council that direct flights between Prestwick and Europe should be encouraged.]
EARL FERRERSMy Lords, the Government have thanked the Council for their interesting and helpful study on demand for direct international Air Ser 522 vices. Although no specific Government action is called for, we will bear in mind all the conclusions and recommendations when drawing up the policy to guide the new Civil Aviation Authority which will be responsible for licensing air services.
§ LORD KILMANYMy Lords, I thank my noble friend for that reply. Is he aware that Prestwick has the best record for freedom from fog of any aerodrome in the country, and that this means that passengers arrive there in a good temper, something that is highly desirable in foreigners visiting the United Kingdom?
EARL FERRERSMy Lords, I am sure that that point will be found to he most relevant by the airlines who would use Prestwick, or might be persuaded to do so in the light of the report. But this is, of course, a matter of commercial judgment for the airlines concerned.