§ 72. Mr. Shepherdasked the Minister of Aviation if he is aware of the difficulties that will be caused to airports such as Manchester as a result of the new arrangements in respect of airport charges; and whether he will review the position.
§ Mr. StonehouseI am aware of the difficulties raised for Manchester, Birmingham and Liverpool and my right hon. Friend has discussed the matter with representatives of the Birmingham Corporation. We believe that a navigation 303W service charge is necessary but have agreed that the non-State aerodromes need not abolish the passenger service charge unless they wish to do so. We do not propose to make any changes in the arrangements which came into force on 1st November but will certainly keep the matter under review.