HC Deb 17 February 1993 vol 219 cc216-7W
Mr. Mackinlay

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what statutory provisions and mechanisms exist to protect the customer and individual consumer of services provided by airports run by BAA.

Mr. Norris

All airports are governed by the Airports Act 1986, under which the Civil Aviation Authority can remedy or prevent unfair or discriminatory trade or pricing practices concerning the handling of aircraft, passengers and their baggage. In addition, at Heathrow, Gatwick and Stansted airports there is a statutory five-yearly review of all activities affecting airport users. The Office of Fair Trading also has powers to investigate other commercial activities at all BAA's airports under consumer and competition legislation.

Mr. Mackinlay

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what consideration the Government have given to the scope for competition in respect of airports operated by BAA plc; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Norris

The Government believe in free, open and fair competition in the air travel and airports markets and will continue to ensure that the interests of consumers and operators alike are protected against anti-competitive practices. Charges at BAA's airports are subject to regulation by the Civil Aviation Authority, which has powers to remedy any specific instance of conduct which unreasonably discriminates against airport users or unfairly exploits an airport's market strength.