HC Deb 14 July 1980 vol 988 cc366-7W
32. Mr. Peter Lloyd

asked the Secretary of State for Trade if he will make a statement on his recent negotiations concerning air transport in the European Economic Community.

Mr. Tebbit

It is our clear policy to secure a better deal for the air traveller in Europe. I am glad to say that, as a result of a United Kingdom initiative, the EEC Council of Transport Ministers has instructed the Commission, with the help of national experts, to carry out an examination of air fares within the Community and to report. British representatives will take a full part in the examination, and in seeking to persuade our Community partners that change is necessary. We have also been able to launch within the Community a priority study on cross-border regional services and I hope that by about the end of this year we shall see firm proposals for opening up such routes to new services.

40. Mr. Iain Mills

asked the Secretary of State for Trade what progress he has made towards lowering air fares in Europe.

Mr. Tebbit

I refer my hon Friend to the reply I gave to my hon. Friend the Member for Fareham (Mr. Lloyd) on action in the European Community. In addition, in consultation with the Civil Aviation Authority, my Department has negotiated reductions in normal economy fares to some European destinations, limited increases to most others and negotiated the introduction of new excursion fares.