asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Civil Aviation what is the position of the construction of the third runway at Prestwick Airport; and whether he is now satisfied that development of the two existing runways will meet all reasonable needs.

In the present economic circumstances this work has necessarily been deferred. The answer to the second part of the Question is, "Yes, Sir, for the time being."

Will the Parliamentary Secretary give an assurance that these runways will be brought into a condition which will allow Prestwick to continue to fulfil the role of a first-class international airport, which the traffic during the past summer has abundantly justified?

Yes, Sir, and its meteorological conditions will assist in the matter.