Abstract copyright UK Data Service and data collection copyright owner.The purpose of the survey was to evaluate the locational impact of Heathrow upon manufacturing and office firms. The main areas of interest were their original location decisions, their present evaluation of their location and their use of Heathrow for business purposes.
Main Topics: Attitudinal/Behavioural Questions There were two questionnaires: 1. Manufacturing firms (SN:258) (factories); 2. Manufacturing firms (offices) (SN:259). (1 and 2) Year firm established at present site, whether a branch of a UK or overseas company, location of head offices, previous location (where applicable), reasons for selection of present site, whether senior members of firm resident in area when site selected, influence of air transport facilities on location decision, ever seriously considered moving all or part of factory, whether existence of an airport in any area had influenced decision for or against move. (1) Main products, value of production in 1968, main materials or components brought in, % value of direct imports in 1968, description of main markets (i.e. industrial, domestic, governmental, etc.). Size of total workforce, number engaged in production, number of females, number of skilled workers, number of employees with ONC or higher awards engaged in research. How and when firm first established. (2) Main business, business conducted with individuals or organisations abroad, % of revenue in 1968 attributed to foreign transactions, size of total workforce, proportion of workforce at clerical/managerial/other grade, number of staff who were university graduates, whether air freight traffic is of direct concern to the firm. (1) Questions relating to exports and imports (% value by air and via Heathrow in particular). Whether any customers consist of airlines, air freight agents, authorities or other firms located in South East (which airport, % of sales in 1968). (2) Questions relating to machinery and supplies (% value by air and via Heathrow in particular). Importance of personal business contracts. (1 and 2) Number of business trips in 1968 (whether UK or abroad), % from Heathrow/other South East airports, number of business calls received in 1968 (main airport used). Importance of proximity to Heathrow, advantages/disadvantages of location.
One-stage stratified or systematic random sample
factories with over 10 workers and offices with more than 20 workers, stratified by location, type, activity and size. Government and local firms/offices were excluded
Face-to-face interview
