House of Commons · General Debate

Civil Aviation

18 October 2023 · 5 other contributors

Opened by Jesse Norman Con Hereford and South Herefordshire

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

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Jesse Norman raised concerns about civil aviation in the House of Commons. Other MPs contributed to the debate.

Key points

These regulations provide airlines relief from the 'use it or lose it' rule to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic impacts.
The regulations maintain the standard 80:20 slot usage requirement while offering flexibility through pre-season hand-backs and justified non-utilisation.
The aim is to support the aviation sector while protecting consumer interests.

How the debate unfolded

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

Opened the debate

Jesse Norman Con Hereford and South Herefordshire

These regulations, made under powers conferred by the Air Traffic Management and Unmanned Aircraft Act 2021 (ATMUA), provide alleviation from the 'use it or lose it' rule for airlines to ensure recovery from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. They retain the normal 80:20 slot usage requirement but offer limited flexibility through a pre-season hand-back allowance and justified non-utilisation of slots provisions, aiming to balance support for the aviation sector with protection for consumers.

Other contributors (5)

Mike Kane Lab Wythenshawe and Sale East

The Labour Party supports these regulations as they act as a safety net for airlines during uncertain times. However, the party criticises the Government's lack of support for the aviation sector during the pandemic and calls for updates on measures to strengthen consumer rights and airspace modernisation efforts.
Mike Penning Con Hemel Hempstead

Expressed concerns about the expansion of flights from Luton airport, highlighting pollution and noise issues affecting residents outside the town despite its ownership by Luton Council. He criticised the decision to allow an almost doubling in flight numbers at Luton airport, noting that it is fundamentally opposed due to ongoing complaints and unresolved issues following a fire.
Gavin Newlands SNP Paisley and Renfrewshire North

Said he was looking forward to discussing the issue of airport slots annually, expressing support for the Government's motion despite his usual opposition. He highlighted interest in guaranteed slots for domestic flights from Glasgow airport and stressed the need for airspace modernisation.
Wera Hobhouse Lib Dem Bath

Supported relaxing the 20:80 rule during the pandemic but noted current challenges including managerial capacity issues, anti-competitive practices by airlines, and environmental concerns. She emphasised the need for proper demand before flights take off and supported a balanced approach while expressing concern about lack of Government support for public transport.
Jesse Norman Con Hereford and South Herefordshire

Mr Jesse Norman thanked colleagues for their contributions, acknowledged the anti-competitive concerns raised by Wera Hobhouse regarding ghost flights and the temporary nature of these measures. He also recognised Gavin Newlands' point about no direct Scottish interest in this debate and thanked Mike Kane for supporting Conservative legislation. He addressed concerns raised by Sir Mike Penning regarding local impacts and expansion issues at Luton airport, clarifying that such issues are unrelated to the current legislation but acknowledged their relevance due to constituency matters. Norman also responded to questions on slot allocation rules, consumer rights work, future use of measures, consultation plans, and detailed procedures for slot allocation.