asked the Minister of Aviation if he will take steps to improve the overseas arrival and waiting area at London Airport.

A major development programme is in hand. It includes a new passenger building and the addition of piers to the two existing international buildings. The improvements will be introduced stage by stage, and as quickly as possible; the first pier was completed and brought into use in June.

Is the Parliamentary Secretary aware that the present waiting lounge is one of the scruffiest in Europe? Can he assure the House that the new one will be up to the best standards among European airports?

At certain times of the week there is considerable congestion, and it is impossible for the lounge to be cleaned at the speed that it should, perhaps, be, to deal with the crowds using it. I am satisfied that the work which is under way will bring about a fine improvement at Heathrow.