§ Mr. MaclennanTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what consideration he is giving to the future operation of the airports currently within the control of Highlands and Islands Airports Ltd.; and if he will make a statement.
§ Lord James Douglas-HamiltonHighlands and Islands Airports Limited—HIAL—is a subsidiary of the Civil Aviation Authority which is the responsibility of my right hon. and learned Friend the Secretary of State for Transport. Initial consideration is being given to the possibility of a transfer of responsibility for HIAL from the CAA to the Scottish Office, but no decisions have been made. Any such transfer may require legislation.