§ Mr. Tierneyasked the Secretary of State for Trade (1) what arrangements he proposes to make in the context of the recent consultative document to consult with interested bodies about the future development of Birmingham Airport;
(2) if, in the context of the recent consultative document, he will make arrangements to discuss the future of Birmingham Airport with those bodies who are opposed to its development.
§ Mr. Clinton DavisAs I stated in my reply to the hon. Member for Thornaby, 249W (Mr. Wrigglesworth) on 24th June—[Vol. 193, cols. 602 and 603]—it is the Government's intention that all those concerned with airports development should have adequate opportunity to express their views on matters raised in the consultation document on regional airports. Nearly 1,000 local authorities, economic planning councils, airport authorities, airport consultative committees, airport employees organisations, amenity groups and other bodies throughout Great Britain, including the Birmingham area, have been informed of the publication of the document and invited to participate in the consultations. My Department will welcome views from these and other organisations concerned. No decisions will be taken in advance of the consultations.
§ Mr. Tierneyasked the Secretary of State for Trade how much money is proposed to be allocated by his Department for research into noise levels and general environmental problems associated with Birmingham Airport.
§ Mr. Clinton DavisNo allocation of money by my Department is made specifically for this purpose, as aircraft noise abatement problems at Birmingham Airport are primarily a matter for the West Midlands County Council. General aircraft noise research financed by my Department will be of assistance, and in
1973–74 1974–75 1975–76 Terminal passengers … … 179,500 207,800 (+ 16 per cent) 241,000 (+ 16 per cent) Total aircraft movements … … 30,423 31,969 (+ 5 per cent) 32,717 (+ 2 per cent) of which Air transport movements … … 3,228 3,474 (+ 8 per cent) 3,484 (—)