§ Mr. Gryllsasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will make a statement about the introduction of the Mediator computerised traffic control system for southern England and if he will authorise an inquiry into safety aspects of traffic control arising from the new system.
§ Mr. NobleStage 1 of the Mediator system of air traffic control was introduced as planned on 1st February and it is operating effectively. Some difficulties arising initially have been overcome and further improvements will be made in due course. Safety standards are being maintained at a high level.
Mediator provides the air traffic controllers with efficient and up-to-date equipment and it facilitates use of better techniques and procedures designed to ease workload and to increase efficiency.
The initial operation of the system is, of course, being kept under review. I have no reason to doubt that it will provide the contribution to increased safety which is one of its objectives.