§ 34. Mr. BradyTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions if he will make a statement on the future of the NATS pension scheme. [54364]
§ Ms Glenda JacksonThe detailed arrangements for future NATS pension arrangements are being considered urgently, as they form an important part of the development of a Public Private Partnership for the business. The Secretary of State hopes to make a statement in due course.
§ Ms SquireTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions when he expects to announce his proposals for a public/private partnership for National Air Traffic Services Ltd; and if he will make a statement. [55988]
1092W
§ Dr. ReidI have today published a consultation paper on the Government's preferred option for a public/private partnership (PPP) for National Air Traffic Services Ltd.
The safe and efficient provision of air traffic control services is rightly a matter of great public interest and, since the PPP was announced, a debate has begun on key issues such as safety, the national interest and public accountability. The Government now want to launch a structured, full and open consultation on these issues. The consultation document which I am publishing today therefore sets out a wide range of matters on which we are looking for views. Safety remains our top priority and we believe that the proposed PPP offers the opportunity to establish a structure which will strengthen safety, satisfy the public interest and the needs of aviation users while providing for the sound future of National Air Traffic Services Ltd and its employees.
I hope that all those with an interest in this subject, whatever their views on the Government's preferred option, will take the opportunity to respond to the consultation document.