§ Mr. Michael McNair-Wilsonasked the Secretary of State for Trade what discussions he has had with British Airways about their proposals to rationalise the route structure within West Germany ; and whether he has discussed the proposals with officials of the West German Government and the Berlin city authorities.
§ Mr. Clinton DavisI have for some time been concerned about the economics of the internal German services and have expressed my anxiety that they should be put on a viable basis. I have therefore been encouraging British Airways to work out schemes in consultation with Pan American, the other operator chiefly concerned, for the further rationalisation of services on these routes.
British Airways have been in touch with my Department about the progress of their discussions with Pan American. When a scheme for rationalisation which is acceptable to Her Majesty's Government and the United States Government has been worked out, the matter will be discussed with the French authorities. As soon as the three Allied Governments have fully considered the matter, the various German interests concerned will be consulted through the appropriate channels.