§ 79. Mr. Masonasked the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation whether he is now satisfied that sufficient progress has been made in helicopter development for him to encourage the introduction of an inter-city helicopter service, with subsequent branch services operating from helistops in provincial towns; and to what extent he is encouraging either private companies or his Department quickly to start such a service.
§ Mr. HayThe introduction of economic scheduled helicopter services depends upon the successful development of large multi-engined machines. The Government have given financial assistance towards the development and production of a number of helicopter types and I expect that a satisfactory British helicopter for services of this character will be ready in a few years time. When a suitable aircraft is ready I hope that airlines with the necessary organisation and experience will start operations.