HC Deb 12 July 1983 vol 45 cc313-4W
Mr. Steen

asked the Secretary of State for Transport what is Her Majesty's Government's policy on extending British Airways borrowing powers.

Mr. David Mitchell

Under the Civil Aviation (Amendment) Act 1982 British Airways' statutory borrowing limit was set at £1,200 million, with further increases permissible by order. Within the present borrowing limit, external financing limits are set for British Airways on a year-to-year basis on the same basis as with other nationalised industries.

Mr. Steen

asked the Secretary of State for Transport whether Her Majesty's Government are considering providing additional funds to British Airways to purchase or lease eighteen aircraft to replace the Trident fleet; and if, in view of the current review of marginal routes, he will satisfy himself, before providing any additional funds, that no aircraft will be surplus to requirements.

Mr. David Mitchell

British Airways is discussing with the Government the possibility of the acquisition of aircraft to replace its Trident fleet. I can assure my hon. Friend that the Government have no intention of providing funds for the acquisition of more aircraft than the airline can expect to operate profitably.

Mr. Steen

asked the Secretary of State for Transport what are Her Majesty's Government's proposals for denationalisation of British Airways; and which will be achieved in (a) 1983–84 and (b) later years; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. David Mitchell

I shall answer this question shortly.

Mr. Steen

asked the Secretary of State for Transport whether he proposed to write off any of British Airways losses in 1981–82 and 1982–83 on marginal routes or other losses; and whether he proposes to write off any losses for the current financial year.

Mr. David Mitchell

I shall answer this question shortly.