British Aviation

HC Deb 27 January 1999 vol 324 c282W

Mr. Hoyle

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will make a statement on the future of British aviation. [66930]

Mr. Battle

The Prime Minister's statement with the Heads of Government of France and Germany of December 1997 made it clear that there is an urgent need to restructure the aerospace and defence industries in Europe, if our companies are to continue to compete successfully in world markets. That remains the case. However, as Ministers have made clear, it is for industry to make specific restructuring proposals.

Any proposed merger would be considered by the relevant competition authorities. Each case would be considered on its own merits.