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Exiting the European Union (Civil Aviation)
10 June 2020
Lead MP
Rachel Maclean
Debate Type
General Debate
Tags
Brexit
Other Contributors: 6
At a Glance
Rachel Maclean raised concerns about exiting the european union (civil aviation) in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.
How the Debate Unfolded
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:
Lead Contributor
Opened the debate
The draft Civil Aviation (Insurance) (Amendment) (EU Exit) Regulations 2020 will be made under the powers conferred by the European Union (Withdrawal) Act 2018, ensuring that UK legislation on aviation insurance continues to function effectively after the end of the transition period. The regulation aims to transfer EU legislative functions related to minimum insurance requirements for air carriers and aircraft operators to a public authority in the UK, maintaining continuity and adherence to international treaties such as the Montreal Convention.
Kerry McCarthy
Lab
Bristol East
The statutory instrument is uncontroversial but requires scrutiny due to concerns about potential discrepancies between EU and UK minimum insurance levels post-transition. The shadow minister also highlighted the need for parliamentary scrutiny amid limitations imposed by social distancing measures, stressing the importance of certainty for the aviation sector during unprecedented economic upheaval.
Gavin Newlands
SNP
Glasgow North
Acknowledges the difficult situation for the aviation sector due to Brexit. Supports maintaining EU regulations on exit day despite reservations about Scotland's forced withdrawal from the EU. Raises concerns over business interruption insurance and the fairness of current refund policies.
Eleanor Laing
Con
Epping Forest
Orders the House to clarify that it is not necessary for all participants to be present at the start of a debate under current circumstances. Reassures Gavin Newlands about his late entrance and acknowledges the need for regulatory alignment.
Jim Shannon
DUP
Strangford
Wishes the Minister success in her new role. Supports the regulations to ensure aviation standards are set by UK Ministers post-Brexit. Emphasises the importance of supporting the aviation sector through production, connectivity, staff support, and individual airline assistance during the pandemic.
Rachel Maclean
Con
Rochester and Strood
Expressed the Government's support for the aviation industry, acknowledged the commitment from the hon. Member for Bristol East to support the SI, reassured about the transfer of powers related to leaving the EU, discussed financial support provided to airlines, highlighted the importance of social distancing and quarantine measures, addressed concerns raised by other Members.
Gavin Newlands
SNP
Paisley and Renfrewshire North
Asked about potential dates for introducing air bridges and whether different holiday seasons around the UK are being considered, specifically mentioning Scotland and Northern Ireland.
Government Response
Discussed the Government's position on social distancing and quarantine measures, addressed concerns related to air bridges, acknowledged the importance of aviation security and mentioned discussions with devolved Administrations.
Shadow Response
Kerry McCarthy
Shadow Response
The shadow minister emphasised the need for clarity on policy areas such as EU transition legislation, financial support for the aviation industry, and measures to prevent further spread of covid-19. She also expressed concerns over the impact of rushing through delegated legislation due to the arbitrary end date for the transition period.
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Assessment & feedback
Summary accuracy
About House of Commons Debates
House of Commons debates take place in the main chamber of the House of Commons. These debates cover a wide range of topics including government policy, legislation, and current affairs. MPs from all parties can participate, question ministers, and hold the government accountable for its decisions.