§ 33. Mr. Robert B. Jonesasked the Secretary of State for Transport what progress he has made in negotiating more competitive fares for air travelling in Europe.
§ Mr. RidleyWe want our airlines to be free to introduce more competitive fares wherever they see a market need which is not being adequately met. They now have that freedom between the United Kingdom and the Netherlands and some fares have come down to as little as £49 return as a result. Substantial reductions have also been obtained in fares to the Federal Republic of Germany. Except in the Netherlands, fares require the approval of both Governments. We are seeking to persuade our other partners in Europe that the approval of the country where the journey starts should be a sufficient safeguard against both monopoly exploitation and uneconomic dumping.