§ Mr. Hayesasked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will satisfy himself that civil servants who advise him on the development of Stansted airport do not, by reason of their residence in the south or south-west of London, have a bias in favour of the development of the Stansted site; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. GowA civil servant must not place himself in a position where his private interests conflict with his duty; but if such a conflict should arise, he must put his duty before his private interests. I am satisfied that the officials providing advice on the Stansted airport and Heathrow fifth terminal proposals will abide by those requirements.