asked the Minister of Aviation what difficulties now exist regarding the final transfer of Middleton St. George to civilian use; and by what date he anticipates it will be fully operational.

Middleton St. George became a civil aerodrome on 18th April when the Ministry of Aviation took over responsibility for its operation from the Ministry of Defence. The aerodrome is to be sold to the local authorities, as soon as a price is agreed.

Middleton St. George has continued to be available for private aircraft and should be fully operational and capable of taking scheduled services in the autumn.

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that there is a good deal of public concern about the apparent difficulties which have arisen over the administration of the new airport, and while the local authorities are moving forward as fast as they can reasonably be expected to do, would he consider the possibility of offering some administrative help if any further delays occur which would prevent scheduled services from starting in the autumn? Also, would he confirm that there has been no variation in the price at which the aerodrome was originally offered to the local authorities?

With regard to the second part of the supplementary question, I think I can confirm that. As regards the first part, staff are being recruited and equipment installed to ensure that, when the airline operators are expected to run scheduled services, the aerodrome will be suitably equipped to accommodate them. What is outstanding is the negotiation over the price, to establish the open market value of the property.