HC Deb 11 March 1999 vol 327 cc355-6W
Mr. Martlew

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what assessment of the future role of Carlisle airport he plans to include in his proposed statement on UK airport policy; and if he will make a statement. [75532]

Ms Glenda Jackson

As foreshadowed in a "New Deal for Transport: Better for Everyone" (Cm3950), DETR has recently commission, in conjunction with the Government Offices for the North West, North East and Yorkshire and the Humber, a Regional Air Services Study for the North of England. This will include an assessment of the future role of Carlisle airport within the UK's airport system, its potential for meeting the demand for air services in Cumbria, Dumfries and Galloway and the Scottish Borders and the economic, environmental and social costs and benefits of doing so.