§ 72. Mr. W. Fletcherasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what steps it is proposed to take to ensure that Singapore and Hong Kong are made adequate for the reception and despatch of civil aircraft, both land and seaplanes of the largest and most modern type; and how soon these steps will be taken.
Mr. Creech JonesI understand that the existing facilities for flying boats at Singapore and Hong Kong are adequate for any types now operating or likely to operate in these two places. The provision of airports at Singapore and Hong Kong adequate for the reception and despatch of large modern land planes presents formidable technical and financial difficulties. My noble Friend the Minister of Civil Aviation has recently despatched a technical survey party to examine the suitability of existing aerodromes and alternative sites on the trunk routes to Australia and the Far East for the reception of modern aircraft. This party, which includes officers experienced in all aspects of aerodrome construction and the operation and maintenance of ancillary facilities, will arrive in Singapore in March and in Hong Kong in April. The cost of constructing such airports at Singapore and Hong Kong together with the cost 287W of providing the necessary ancillary facilities, will be a heavy burden, particularly in view of the present financial situation of those territories. I am in consultation with the Governors concerned on this matter.