§ Mr. Barry JonesTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales what discussions he has had with the First Secretary concerning the prospects for the aerospace industry in Wales, with specific reference to Airbus, Broughton; and if he will make a statement. [116233]
§ Mr. Paul MurphyI am in frequent contact with the First Secretary on a range of issues and we discuss many aspects of industry in Wales. This has included the BAe facility at Broughton.
48WI was pleased to hear that the first orders have been received for the A3XX Airbus, and also welcome the announcement by my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Defence that the United Kingdom will be placing an order for 25 A400M aircraft.
§ Mr. Barry JonesTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales what discussions he plans with the First Secretary concerning BAe Systems' application for an regional selective assistance grant; and if he will make a statement. [115202]
§ Mr. Paul MurphyI have raised the issue during my regular discussions with the First Secretary. As I have stated previously, details of RSA applications are treated as commercial in confidence between the Assembly and the applicant. Any decision on awarding RSA grant is entirely a matter for the Assembly, or the First Secretary in cases involving grant of the magnitude sought by BAe.