HC Deb 17 February 1977 vol 926 c348W
Mr. McCrindle

asked the Secretary of State for Trade if he plans to introduce legislation requiring airlines and tour companies to make a payment in respect of airport security; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Clinton Davis

As part of their proposals to reduce public expenditure, the Government have decided in principle that the burden of aviation security expenditure should be transferred from the taxpayer to the industry as from 1st April 1978. Consultations between the Department and the industry including the airlines, the airports authorities, the trade unions and the Civil Aviation Authority are currently taking place about the methods of implementing this policy. Legislation may be required.