§ LORD ORR-EWINGasked Her Majesty's Government:
Whether they are aware that the decision to site large electric pylons in the Green Belt between Hertford and Hatfield and westward therefrom was conditioned solely by the need to safeguard the approaches to Radlett aerodrome and whether, in view of its moribund state and its position in the aircraft control zone for London, they see any continuing need for this airfield.
§ THE MINISTER WITHOUT PORT FOLIO (LORD DRUMALBYN)I can confirm that the then Ministry of Aviation did give advice to the Central Electricity Generating Board in 1965 about the safeguarding of the aerodrome when the route for the pylons was being planned, but I understand that this was not the sole consideration. Her Majesty's Government see no need to urge the retention of this aerodrome for foreseeable aviation purposes and accept that if it were to be closed there would be benefit to air traffic control. While the route of the line of pylons has been approved by the Hertfordshire County Council, I understand that the C. E. G. B. have no plans at present to apply for the requisite consent of the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry. If and when an application is made, it will be publicly advertised and, if necessary, a public inquiry will be held.