HC Deb 17 June 1963 vol 679 cc8-9W
Mr. Cronin

asked the Minister of Aviation on how many occasions he and his predecessors have requested the Air Corporations to alter their accounts, as was done by his predecessor with regard to the British Overseas Airways Corporation's accounts in 1959; and for what reason such requests were made.

Mr. Amery

It has been the practice of the Air Corporations each year to submit to and discuss with my Department the proposed form of their accounts. The discussions have covered a wide range of matters primarily concerned with the form of the accounts.

Mr. Cronin

asked the Minister of Aviation whether he has suggested that the British Overseas Airways Corporation should alter its 1962–63 accounts in any way.

Mr. Amery

No. The Corporation will shortly be submitting the proposed form of its 1962–63 Accounts to me. I will then, as is customary in exercise of my duty under Section 22(1) of the Air Corporations Act, 1949, consider them with the Treasury.

Mr. Cronin

asked the Minister of Aviation for what reasons his predecessor regarded as indefensible British Overseas Airways Corporation's proposal to write down the value of certain capital assets in 1959, without bringing the adjustment through either the operating of the profit and loss account.

Mr. Amery

My predecessor considered that the method proposed might have given the misleading impression to Parliament and the public that the Corporation was to be relieved of part of its capital debt.