§ Mr. Durantasked the Minister for Trade what progress he has made in determining the appeal lodged by British Midland Airways in October 1981 against the decision by the Civil Aviation Authority not to allow British Midland Airways to compete with British Airways on the Heathrow-Glasgow and Heathrow-Edinburgh routes; what time-limits have been set by him for any submissions from the parties concerned; and if, in view of uncertainty and costs to British Midland Airways, he will fix a date for the final determination of the appeal.
§ Mr. SproatMy right hon. and noble Friend the Secretary of State has requested further elucidation from the parties concerned. Some responses are still awaited. The need to minimise uncertainty and cost is fully appreciated, but at the same time it is important that all the parties should have the opportunity to express their views. Every effort will be made to reach a speedy conclusion.