§ Lord James Douglas-Hamiltonasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what was the rate revenue from the Civil Aviation Authority in respect of each of the Highlands and Islands airports for the years 1983–84 and 1984–85; and what is the estimated revenue for these airports in 1985–86.
§ Mr. AncramThe rates paid by the Civil Aviation Authority in respect of each aerodrome in 1983–84 and 1984–85 were as set out in the table:
£'000 1983–84 1984–85 Benbecula 144 166 Inverness 184 198 Islay 32 24 Kirkwall 60 76 Stornoway 125 132 Tiree 21 22 Wick 59 62 Sumburgh 520 672 It is not possible to estimate the rates payable in 1985–86 because of the impending general rates revaluation.
§ Lord James Douglas-Hamiltonasked the Secretary of State for Scotland (1) if he will make it his policy to provide a subsidy for the running costs of any aerodromes in the Highlands and Islands which may be taken over by local authorities;
(2) what plans he has to alter the expenditure limits imposed on local authorities which may take over the running of aerodromes in the Highlands and Islands;
(3) how many local authorities have shown an interest in the acquisition of the Highlands and Islands airports.
§ Mr. AncramLocal authorities, and other potential purchasers, have until 31 December to make any offers for the airports. The Government have made it clear that subsidy will continue to be available where necessary to ensure a level of service adequate to meet the essential needs of the local communities. Any additional330W expenditure incurred by local authorities would be taken into account in calculating local authority relevant expenditure.
§ Lord James Douglas-Hamiltonasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what is his policy regarding the price for which he would accept an offer or tender for any of the Highlands and Islands airports.
§ Mr. AncramOffers or tenders will be considered on their merits against the objectives of retaining the airport facilities and securing their provision in the most efficient and cost effective manner.
§ Lord James Douglas-Hamiltonasked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will make it a condition of sale of airports in the Highlands and Islands that any potential purchaser would have to maintain an adequate and satisfactory service.
§ Mr. AncramThe aerodromes will be sold subject to conditions designed to ensure that the essential needs of the communities served are met.