HC Deb 15 October 2001 vol 372 cc885-6W
John McDonnell

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, Local Government and the Regions (1) what discussions he has had with the Airline Group since 11 September on the future of National Air Traffic Services; [7839]

(2) if he will make a statement on the sale of the National Air Traffic Services in respect of the downturn in air passenger demand since 11 September; [7843]

Sandra Osborne

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, Local Government and the Regions what discussions he has had with the Airline Group following the reduction in transatlantic air traffic; and if he will make a statement. [7942]

Mr. Jamieson

The events of 11 September are having a wide-ranging impact on the airline industry. National Air Traffic Services and the Airline Group are preparing their business plan in the light of this, and my officials are in close and continuing discussion with them.

Mr. Laws

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, Local Government and the Regions what his estimate is of the effect on Exchequer revenues of the sell-off of the National Air Traffic Services; and if he will make a statement. [6519]

Mr. Jamieson

The Government have received proceeds totalling almost £770 million from the sale of a minority share in National Air Traffic Services to the Airline Group. There is a further £35 million due as deferred proceeds.