§ Mr. MandelsonTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport what plans he has to discuss airline competition with chairmen of British-owned airlines; and which chairmen he proposes to meet.
§ Mr. NorrisMy right hon. Friend regularly meets chairmen of United Kingdom airlines to discuss matters of mutual interest.
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§ Mr. MandelsonTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport whether he will instigate an Office of Fair Trading investigation of competition and fare structures in the airline industry.
§ Mr. NorrisNo. Within the EC, Community legislation covers these issues. Elsewhere, the Civil Aviation Authority already has appropriate powers.
§ Mr. MandelsonTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport (1) what action the Civl Aviation Authority is taking to allow greater competition between British airlines on Atlantic routes with particular reference to the London to San Francisco service;
(2) if he will use his powers to direct the Civil Aviation Authority to ensure greater consumer choice between British airlines serving Atlantic routes with particular reference to the London to San Francisco service.
§ Mr. NorrisWe understand that cases concerning competitive aspects of north Atlantic routes, including competition on the London-San Francisco route, are before the Civil Aviation Authority. In view of the Secretary of State's appellate role, it would be inappropriate to comment.