§ Mr. BlunkettTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport (1) at what point his Department was in a position to warn passengers of the problems they faced in relation to the financial difficulties confronting the International Leisure Group; and if he will make a statement;
(2) when his Department became aware of the financial difficulties facing Air Europe; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. McLoughlinIt is the responsibility of the Civil Aviation Authority to monitor the financial fitness of air carriers and air travel organisers. The Department of Transport was kept informed of the position as it developed and of the attempts to maintain trading. To have made public statements about the companies' financial affairs while there was still a serious prospect of rescue would simply have precipitated the crisis.
§ Mr. FearnTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport if he has met the chairman of the Civil Aviation Authority to discuss Air Europe.
§ Mr. McLoughlinThe Civil Aviation Authority has kept my right hon. and learned Friend informed of developments concerning Air Europe.