Flying Facilities, North Devon

Oral Answers to Questions — Ministry of Aviation – in the House of Commons at 12:00 am on 17 March 1965.

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Photo of Mr Peter Mills Mr Peter Mills , Torrington 12:00, 17 March 1965

asked the Minister of Aviation what proposals he has to provide facilities for private and commercial aircraft to operate in North Devon.

Photo of Mr John Stonehouse Mr John Stonehouse , Wednesbury

Provision of aerodromes to serve local needs is primarily a matter for local interests; the Ministry of Aviation will gladly advise on all technical aspects. Local authorities have already been encouraged to look into the possibility of providing small landing strips for private and business fliers and have been sent particulars of what such strips require.

Photo of Mr Peter Mills Mr Peter Mills , Torrington

Will the hon. Member bear in mind the real need for commercial aircraft facilities in North Devon—I do not think there are any at the moment—as this is a development area, with new factories springing up? Perhaps he will use his influence to encourage these facilities in North Devon.

Photo of Mr John Stonehouse Mr John Stonehouse , Wednesbury

We will bear that point in mind. If the authorities concerned will send us their proposals we will give them all the help that we can.

Photo of Mr Kenneth Lewis Mr Kenneth Lewis , Rutland and Stamford

Is the Minister aware that I regret that I was not here when my Question No. 9 was reached, because of a rather high-flying lunch? Does he really think that it helps private flying to cut the tax concession which private flyers have—

Photo of Sir Harry Hylton-Foster Sir Harry Hylton-Foster , Cities of London and Westminster

Order. This is an old, unpleasant device, which I hope will not be pursued by anybody.