§ Mr. Alfred MorrisTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport (1) what criteria were used to determine which airports were designated under section 40 of the Airports Act 1986; [37815]
(2) to what extent the criteria used to determine which airports were designated under section 40 of the Airports Act 1986 take account of trends in competition in the aviation industry following air service liberalisation in (a)Europe and (b)elsewhere; and if he will make a statement. [37819]
§ Mr. NorrisNo formal criteria for the designation of airports are included in the Airports Act. However, the criteria that the Government consider relevant to designation are the market position, including extent of competition from other airports and other modes; prima facie evidence of excessive profitability or abuse of monopoly position; the scale and timing of investment, and their implications for profitability; and the efficiency and quality of service.
§ Mrs. DunwoodyTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport if he will list the number of staff currently employed at(a) Heathrow and (b) Gatwick airports. [39510]
§ Mr. NorrisThese are matters for BAA plc.