asked the Secretary of State for Air whether he is aware that work on the extensions at Abbotsinch have been stopped, leading to many men becoming unemployed; and whether this is a temporary stoppage or a permanent closing down?

Part of the work in hand at Abbotsinch will be completed. The actual extensions will not be proceeded with, as arrangements have been made elsewhere which will expedite the provision of the facilities required. Considerable construction work is in progress in the neighbourhood, and I hope that the men concerned will find employment there.