HC Deb 11 April 1956 vol 551 cc12-3W
13. Mr. P. Williams

asked the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation what landing, handling, and parking charges were paid during a recent visit by a Soviet jet aircraft to London Airport; what additional guards were provided; at what cost; and to whom.

Mr. Watkinson

The aircraft concerned paid two visits to London Airport, the first from 22nd to 27th March, and the second from 5th to 7th April. On each occasion the Soviet jet aircraft was treated as a diplomatic aircraft and under the Regulations was therefore exempt from landing and parking charges. Handling was limited to provision of steps for which no charge was made.

The only special guard provided (apart from those employed by the Soviet authorities themselves) consisted of a member of the Ministry Constabulary who, as on previous occasions when visiting aircraft have seemed likely to attract special interest, was detailed to patrol in the vicinity of the aircraft throughout its stay. No additional cost was incurred by this arrangement.