HC Deb 12 March 1962 vol 655 cc124-5W
94. Mr. Gough

asked the Minister of Aviation in view of the Government's decision to close down Croydon Airport, what arrangements he proposes to make to provide adequate aerodrome facilities within easy reach of London for the use of business and executive aircraft.

Mr. Woodhouse

Twelve airfields within 25 miles of Central London are already open to business and executive flyers. As my hon. Friend knows, my right hon. Friend has arranged for Biggin Hill to be made available permanently for civil flying, and trial Customs facilities can also be provided. He is also making arrangements with my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Air for private aircraft to have limited access to the R.A.F. aerodromes at Northolt and North Weald.

95. Mr. Gough

asked the Minister of Aviation how many airfields in the London and Home Counties areas, including Croydon, have been closed down since the end of hostilities in 1945.

Mr. Woodhouse

The number in Essex, Hertfordshire, Middlesex, Surrey, Kent and Buckinghamshire is 35, of which 18 were in Essex. The number within 25 miles of Charing Cross is 12.