Oral Answers to Questions Debate

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Department: Department for Transport

Oral Answers to Questions

Jeremy Lefroy Excerpts
Thursday 1st March 2018

(6 years, 2 months ago)

Commons Chamber
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Jeremy Lefroy Portrait Jeremy Lefroy (Stafford) (Con)
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Will my right hon. Friend give us an update on the progress of the negotiations on air connections with the European Union after we leave in March next year?

Chris Grayling Portrait Chris Grayling
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The European Commission has published its negotiating position on aviation links. There have been a lot of scare stories around over the last few months, but the Commission has said that in all circumstances—whether or not we have a trade deal, and whether or not we have an implementation period—there must be an aviation agreement. There is a recognition on the Commission’s side that the flights need to continue, and there is an absolute commitment on our side. I met my Spanish counterpart yesterday, and we agreed that it was essential for flights to continue. We will all work to ensure that there is absolutely no interruption in services.