§ 140. Mr. Staintonasked the Minister of Aviation what progress has been made in setting up the public inquiry into the air disaster at London Airport on 27th October, 1965; and whether, in view of the anxiety resulting from this crash, he will call for an early interim report covering the salient factors.
§ Mr. MulleyMy noble Friend the Lord Chancellor has appointed Mr. Geoffrey Lane, Q.C., as Commissioner, assisted by Professor D. Keith-Lucas and Captain W.B. Caldwell as Assessors, to hold the public inquiry. The hearing will commence in London on 9th May. Since the court has not yet had an opportunity of considering the evidence which is still being collected and in respect of which a great deal of work remains to be done, no purpose would be served by calling for an early interim report.
§ 141. Mr. Staintonasked the Minister of Aviation whether the delay in setting up the public inquiry into the air disaster at London Airport on 27th October, 1965 has retarded payment of compensation to the estates of the 36 victims; and whether he will give details of the amounts paid or proposed.
§ Mr. MulleyNo. Nor has there been any undue delay. I understand that negotiations between the airline and claimants are going ahead. The details of claims and settlements are a confidential matter between the two parties.
§ Mr. Harold Walkerasked the Minister of Aviation when he intends to hold the public inquiry into the accident at London 91W Airport on 27th October, 1965, in which 36 people lost their lives.
§ Mr. MulleyI would refer my hon. Friend to the reply I gave today to the hon. Member for Sudbury & Woodbridge (Mr. Stainton) in answer to a similar Question.