Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what assessment her Department has made of the potential impact of the proposed expansion of Stansted airport on regional airports.

The Government has been clear that it is not opposed to airport expansion as long as it provides economic growth and is compatible with strict environmental standards.

This Government recognises the importance of maintaining a thriving and competitive aviation sector in the UK to deliver connectivity, including the provision of Public Service Obligations that enable protection of existing domestic routes that are in danger of being lost.

I am unable to comment on any future planning application should it come before ministers for consideration.