HC Deb 13 January 1975 vol 884 cc21-2W
Mr. Biggs-Davison

asked the Secretary of State for Defence whether he is satisfied that under the proposals in his defence review there would be sufficient air transport to move troops in fulfilment of British interests and obligations; and what are the arrangements for the requisitioning of civilian aircraft for military purposes.

Mr. John

Yes. It has been one of the objectives of the defence review to keep changes in airlift capability in line with the revision of our commitments. In time of emergency, and if it is thought necessary, my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Trade may direct the use of the aircraft of nationalised airlines and my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Defence has powers of requisition over aircraft of the non-nationalised airlines.