§ Mr. Robert McCartneyTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what criteria will be used to decide(a) the price and (b) the buyer in the sale of Belfast international airport; and if he will make a statement. [39579]
§ Mr. MossThe price offered for Belfast international airport is a matter for the commercial judgment of the existing owners and the proposed purchaser.
The Government retained a reversionary interest in BIAL the principal purpose of which was to enable it to retain, for security reasons, an element of control over the identity of the owners of the property. The control mechanisms can be exercised by means of a special share and a 999-year lease. The current management of BIAL, has complied with the requirements of the special share in consulting the department with regard to the identity of the proposed purchasers.
The Government welcome this important vote of confidence in the strength and potential of the Northern Ireland economy.