§ Lord O'HAGANasked Her Majesty's Government:
What authority they have over the possible expansion of Lulsgate Airport; whether the expansion would be financed from the rate support grant or other sources of public finance; and whether they are in favour of the proposed expansion.
§ The PARLIAMENTARY UNDERSECRETARY of STATE, DEPARTMENT of the ENVIRONMENT (Lord Bellwin)The Bristol City Council would need to seek planning permission for development at their airport, and the powers of the Secretary of State for the Environment in relation to planning applications and decisions would apply. The city council would also need to apply to the Department of Trade for consent for any borrowing for key sector expenditure. The rate support grant is a block grant that is not earmarked for particular projects. It would be premature for the Government to offer a view in the absence of any proposals from the responsible local authority.