§ Mr. Burdenasked the Minister of Aviation what is the cost of the new aids to navigation that are to be installed at Rochester Airport; what proportion of the cost will be borne by the Government; and when the aids are expected to come into operation.
§ Mr. Roy JenkinsThe Rochester City Corporation, which owns the airport, applied some time ago for assistance under the Technical Aid Scheme and we have arranged to make it a grant at the standard rate of 50 per cent. towards the purchase and installation of certain items of equipment, the estimated cost of which totals £4,800. The equipment is expected to be in operation by 30th November.
§ Mr. Burdenasked the Minister of Aviation, what future he envisages for Rochester Airport; and what help he intends to give in order to ensure that sufficient traffic is generated to avoid the need for subsidy from the local ratepayers.
§ Mr. Roy JenkinsI understand that the Rochester City Corporation intend to maintain its aerodrome and it will, therefore, continue to be available to serve the civil aviation needs, both public and private, of the locality.
As regards the generation of traffic, I have no powers to direct airlines or private fliers to use a particular airport, but the financial assistance which I am giving Rochester Airport will help to ensure that it is equipped to the standard necessary for public transport operations.