§ Mr. Carter-Jonesasked the Secretary of State for Transport what were the gross and net profits of British Airways in the financial years ended 1982 to 1985 inclusive; if he will give the percentage of the airline which was privately owned; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Michael SpicerBritish Airways' operating results and retained profits were as follows:
£ million 1981–82 1982–83 1983–84 1984–85 Operating result 11.8 185.1 267.7 292.1 Retained profit/(loss) after extraordinary items (544.2) 88.6 214.5 176.1 The airline was wholly owned by the Government throughout this period.
§ Mr. Carter-Jonesasked the Secretary of State for Transport if he has received any request from British Airways for permission or financial help in purchasing or ordering new aircraft; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Michael SpicerMy right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Transport has approved the acquisition of seven new aircraft during the last 12 months. No requests for approval are outstanding and none has been turned down. British Airways meets all its investment requirements from internal resources or from finance made available on commercial terms.