Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what assessment he has made of the potential socio-economic impact of strikes in the aviation ground services sector and possible disruption to critical just-in-time cargo and essential connectivity.

The Government recognises the value and critical role of the aviation ground handling sector. However, it is also important to recognise that the sector operates predominately in the private sector. It is the responsibility of industry to ensure that appropriate contingency plans are in place to manage periods of industrial action effectively, to meet the contractual obligations they may have and ensure positive outcomes for passengers.