HC Deb 07 December 1977 vol 940 cc723-4W
Mr. Rose

asked the Secretary of State for Trade whether he has considered the recommendations of the Chambers of Commerce Air Transport Committee to develop Manchester Airport with a new second runway; and whether in view of its advanced ground facilities its current activity and central location, he will take steps to encourage its use as the major regional airport and to increase its use as an international airport for Continental and transatlantic flights by the building of a second runway.

Mr. Clinton Davis

The views of all those who commented on the Government's consultation documents have been carefully considered in the preparation of a White Paper on airports policy, which it is hoped to publish early in January and which will deal with the future role of Manchester Airport. I am not, however, aware that greater use of the airport is inhibited by the lack of a second runway.