HC Deb 24 October 1956 vol 558 cc37-8W
70. Sir R. Boothby

asked the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation what action is being taken to extend the runways at Prestwick Airport.

Mr. Watkinson

The new subsidiary runway of 6,000 ft. which was opened last year is being supplemented by 500 ft. of overrun at the southern end. This should be ready for use by the spring of next year. There are no plans for further extensions at present, but airline operators have been asked to provide early information on the performance and requirements of the big new jet aircraft which they hope to introduce in a few years' time. Reliable information on this is essential to any decision on future ground requirements at Prestwick or at any other aerodrome.