§ Mr. Warrenasked the Secretary of State for Transport if he will introduce legislation to ensure that prospective investors have the right to bid for routes and services operated by British Airways plc when the public flotation of that company's shares commences.
§ Mr. David MitchellAny British airline, or anyone wishing to establish one, can already apply to the Civil Aviation Authority for a licence to serve routes in competition with or in place of an existing operator. But they would have to satisfy the authority as to their fitness, finances, and safety of operation and that they complied with other statutory requirements; and, if they wished to replace the incumbent, that they could provide a better service.