§ Mr. Alfred MorrisTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport what was the outcome of the recent meeting between his Department and representatives of the United States State and Transportation Departments' team in terms of expediting United States carrier access to Manchester International airport; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Peter BottomleyThere has been no formal meeting between the Department and representatives of the United States State and Transportation Departments to discuss wider access to Manchester International airport for United States airlines. A letter was handed to them on 7 January setting out details of a five-year development plan with a view to providing opportunities for United States passenger airlines to serve Manchester on a scheduled basis. The plan was developed in consultation with interested parties including Manchester International airport authority. It is intended to form a basis for discussion.
145WThe United States Government will consider these proposals and respond as soon as possible.
Officials of the Department have indicated that (in exchange, as a quid pro quo) we would be seeking enhanced opportunities for United Kingdom airlines to serve parts of the United States market which are not currently open to us.