Commons Sense

House of Commons · Adjournment Debate

Manchester Airport and the Local Economy

02 July 2020 · 2 other contributors

Opened by Navendu Mishra Lab Stockport

EconomyTransportEnvironment

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Navendu Mishra raised concerns about manchester airport and the local economy in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.

Key points

  • Manchester airport employs directly and indirectly over 100,000 people and generates 4.5 billion annually.
  • The pandemic reduced passenger numbers to historic lows, causing financial strain and job cuts at companies like Swissport and easyJet.
  • The Government highlights support measures such as the Corporate Financing Facility, Job Retention Scheme, and Business Interruption Loan Scheme.

How the debate unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.

Opened the debate

Navendu Mishra Lab Stockport

Unite, representing aviation workers, campaigns for Government support during the pandemic. Manchester airport employs directly and indirectly over 100,000 people and generates £4.5 billion annually. It connects to 210 destinations and is vital for investment in Greater Manchester. Lockdown reduced passenger numbers to historic lows, causing financial strain leading to job cuts at companies like Swissport and easyJet. The Independent Transport Commission reports that over half the workforce near the airport work in aviation-related businesses. The furlough scheme offers limited support; more targeted aid such as sector-specific loan packages or equity investments are needed to prevent further redundancies. Reductions in business rates, air passenger duty, and funding for the Civil Aviation Authority should also be considered. Environmental sustainability must not be compromised amidst economic recovery. The Greater Manchester Combined Authority has already provided £250 million of support.

Other contributors (2)
  • Rachel Hopkins Lab Nottingham North

    Supports the idea that regional airports provide essential jobs and services, including direct dividends to councils and charitable organisations.

  • Andy Carter Con Warrington South

    Emphasises Manchester Airport's importance for Warrington’s economy despite not being in his constituency. Urges the Government to take steps to ensure safe recovery of aviation, protecting jobs and supporting environmental sustainability.

Government Response

Kelly Tolhurst

Acknowledges the economic impact of aviation sector challenges, especially in regions like Manchester. Highlights support measures such as Bank of England’s Corporate Financing Facility, Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme, and Business Interruption Loan Scheme to protect jobs and businesses. Conveys readiness for further discussions with affected entities. Mentions ongoing engagement with unions regarding British Airways redundancies. Outlines the Government's plan for aviation sector recovery including health guidance and easing border restrictions based on risk assessment. Emphasises support for a green recovery through initiatives like the Jet Zero Council. Promises to continue collaboration with airports such as Manchester to ensure economic revival while addressing environmental concerns.

▸ Assessment & feedback
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