Manchester Airport and the Local Economy

Baroness Laing of Elderslie Excerpts

Thursday 2nd July 2020 Commons Chamber

[Rachel Hopkins (Luton South) (Lab)]

Thank you for giving way in this important debate. Would you agree that while airports in our regions provide many direct jobs, as you outlined, they also have an important role—

[Madam Deputy Speaker (Dame Eleanor Laing)]

Order. Would the hon. Lady mind saying that again, but, instead of saying “would you agree,” please say “would he agree”?

[Rachel Hopkins]

I apologise.

[Madam Deputy Speaker]

No, no. Everyone makes a mistake now and then. It is not terrible, but it is time that we managed to grasp this and get it right. I would be grateful if the hon. Lady would set an example, please.

[Rachel Hopkins]

Thank you, Madam Deputy Speaker. I appreciate that as a newer Member I am practising the ways, and I will get it right. Does my hon. Friend agree that regional airports have an important role to play, not only for all the direct jobs they provide in our areas, but for the wider jobs and services they can support, such as at Luton airport? It is in my constituency and it is the fifth largest airport in the UK. It provides £20 million a year in direct dividend to Luton Borough Council, which provides jobs and services, and £10 million a year direct to the voluntary and community charitable organisations. Does he agree on the importance of that role, too?