HC Deb 03 May 1977 vol 931 cc118-9W
Mr. Viggers

asked the Secretary of State for Trade what plans he has to encourage a direct air link between London and Houston, Texas.

Mr. Clinton Davis

This route has been proposed by both the United Kingdom and the United States for inclusion in the new air services agreement, and I am confident that British Caledonian will be able to start its service when it wants to.

Mr. Viggers

asked the Secretary of State for Trade what is his best estimate of current air traffic between London and Houston, distinguishing between passenger and freight.

Mr. Clinton Davis

The Civil Aviation Authority estimates that total air traffic between London and Houston in the year ending 31st December 1976 was 60,000 passengers and 4,000–5,000 tonnes freight.

Mr. Viggers

asked the Secretary of State for Trade whether he has received a copy of publications entitled "Transatlantic Route Proceeding Statistical Data", "Houston's International Business", and "Houston Airport Activity Statistics"; and whether he has drawn any conclusions from them as to the benefit to the United Kingdom of a direct air link between London and Houston.

Mr. Clinton Davis

Yes. British Caledonian Airways Ltd. is licensed by the Civil Aviation Authority to operate a direct service to Houston, and I expect the new United Kingdom/United States air services agreement now under negotiation to include this route.