Questions & Answers
Q1
Direct Answer
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Context
The question arises from the need to support the aviation industry which has been heavily impacted by the pandemic.
What steps he is taking to support the aviation sector?
We have delivered approximately £8 billion of support for the aviation sector through the pandemic, and we are currently developing a strategic framework to help support the sector's recovery.
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Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
Regional airports have faced significant challenges due to the pandemic, leading to questions about potential support measures.
Has he given any thought to how public service obligations could help support regional airports right across the UK, including in Scotland—such as Aberdeen airport, which serves my constituency—to recover from the covid-19 pandemic?
We recognise the significant impact that covid-19 has had on regional airports. We will consider whether there are further opportunities to utilise public service obligations.
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Assessment & feedback
the specific use of public service obligations
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
The aviation industry is facing difficulties in recovering from the pandemic, including disputes between airlines and airports over landing charges. The questioner points out that there has been a lack of action from the Secretary of State.
Having failed to secure a sector-specific deal from the Treasury, the industry is recovering much more slowly than our international competitors, and now we have the spectacle of an unholy row between airlines and airports on landing charges. With the new rules on slots, we have the prospect of planes flying empty or with half loads. Industry leaders tell me that the Secretary of State has been missing in action, but he has been busy shoring up the beleaguered Prime Minister's whipping operation—we would like to thank him for that. Is it not time for the Secretary of State to step up to the plate when it comes to aviation?
The Secretary of State and all members of the Government have been in constant contact with the aviation sector, and it is through that that we have been able to tailor our response. We have given £8 billion of support to the sector. The airport and ground operations support scheme is on top of that, and there is the aviation skills retention platform.
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Assessment & feedback
specific action plan for addressing current industry issues
Response accuracy