To ask Her Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of the future need for (1) passenger, and (2) freight, air services between major regional centres in Great Britain including those between South West England, the Midlands, and the North of England and Scotland; and what plans, if any, they have to provide such services directly when necessary on a similar basis to directly operated railway franchises.

The aviation sector is important to the UK economy. Her Majesty’s Government recognises that airports, which provide those passenger and freight air services, are vital for providing domestic and global connectivity, employment opportunities, and a hub for local transport. We continuously engage with the industry to ensure the connectivity needs of the UK are met.