HC Deb 30 January 2002 vol 379 cc323-4W
Chris Grayling

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, Local Government and the Regions (1) what discussions he has had with the Treasury on the CAA representation on the ability of the Airlines Group business plan for NATS to withstand a major incident; [31645]

(2) what advice he received from the Civil Aviation Authority on the ability of the Airlines Group's business plan for NATS to withstand a major incident; [31648]

(3) if he will deposit in the Library a copy of the CAA's submission about the ability of the Airlines Group Business Plan for NATS to withstand a major incident. [31653]

Mr. Jamieson

The terms of the public-private partnership for NATS were accepted by all the parties involved, including the Civil Aviation Authority. It would not be appropriate to disclose the detail of discussions prior to conclusion of this commercial deal.

Chris Grayling

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, Local Government and the Regions if he has prepared a contingency plan for NATS going into administration or receivership. [31655]

Mr. Jamieson

No such plan has been prepared.

Chris Grayling

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, Local Government and the Regions when(a) he and (b) his officials last met NATS to discuss its financial situation. [31656]

Mr. Jamieson

Ministers and officials maintain regular contact with NATS.

Chris Grayling

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, Local Government and the Regions what representations he has received, other than from that of the CAA, about the ability of NATS to withstand a major incident. [31654]

Mr. Jamieson

No such representations have been received.

Chris Grayling

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, Local Government and the Regions what representations he has received from banks backing NATS seeking additional public financial support for the business. [31644]

Mr. Jamieson

The banks backing NATS are in regular discussion with the Government and all other relevant parties regarding the company's financial situation.

Chris Grayling

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, Local Government and the Regions when he last met NATS' bankers to discuss its financial situation. [31643]

Mr. Jamieson

No such meetings have been held.