asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Civil Aviation whether he is aware that the development of internal air lines is at a standstill pending the Government's announcement on the re-organisation of air transport; and what steps he is taking to enable these air lines to start work without delay.

:The policy of the Government for the future organisation of air transport is one of several factors on which the future development of internal air lines depends, but I am not in a position to add to the replies I gave to the hon. Member last week on this subject.

:Is the hon. Gentleman aware that the delay is prejudicing employment of ex-R.A.F. personnel, and that as a result of one advertisement for one pilot, an air line company received over 80 answers?

I cannot admit that there has been any delay, but there is a procedure for seconding R.A.F. men for civil flying.

Is the hon Gentleman aware that there is the greatest indignation in Scotland at the lack of any sort of policy in this connection?

:The Scottish position is well understood, and I have made it clear that an early statement of policy may be expected.