HC Deb 25 November 1975 vol 901 cc124-5W
Mr. Anthony Steen

asked the Secretary of State for Trade what evidence has he invited, and from whom, in order to assess the extent of demand (1) by the private sector and (2) by the public industrial sector, in determining whether Speke Airport should be the major airport for the central England area.

Mr. Clinton Davis

Following the abandonment of the Maplin airport project local authorities and other organisations, including those concerned with Liverpool airport, were invited to comment on the way in which future United Kingdom air traffic should be handled. I visited Liverpool Airport for discussions and further advice, and comment will be invited on the basis of the Consultation Document on Regional Airports to be published early in 1976.

Mr. Steen

asked the Secretary of State for Trade whether, in considering the designation of major airports in the regions and in particular the North-West, he will have regard to the effect on industrial development in specially assisted areas adjacent to airports not designated.

Mr. Clinton Davis

The extent to which airports may have an effect on industrial development is one of the matters that will be dealt with in the Consultation Document on Regional Airports which it is hoped to publish early in 1976.