§ 27. Mr. Malcolm BruceTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport what representations he has received on the future of airline competition policy in the United Kingdom and in the European Community.
§ Mr. ChannonI have received many representations from airlines and other interests, the majority supporting competition in the provision of air transport services.
§ 65. Mr. SteenTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport if he will make a statement as to the implications for airline competition of the recent statement by the European Commissioner for Transport.
§ Mr. Peter BottomleyMy right hon. Friend welcomes the agreement reached between the European Commission and British Airways, following the merger with British Caledonian Airways. The agreement is compatible with BA's proposals accepted by the Monopolies and Mergers Commission, which opened up major opportunities for other United Kingdom airlines to operate services on domestic and European routes.
358WThe Government remain committed to their policy, set out in the 1984 White Paper, of encouraging a sound competitive multi-airline industry, promoting competition in all markets, and ensuring adequate safeguards against anti-competitive behaviour.