31-10-02

Barrett raises air consultation during Commons Question Time

John Barrett MP, the Scottish Liberal Democrat Spokesperson on Cross Border Transport, today raised in the House of Commons the poor response to the Government's consultation on air transport expansion in Scotland.

The action follows statistics issued by Mr Barrett last week, showing that despite 37,122 copies of the "The Future Development of Air Transport - Scotland" consultation document having been issued, only 449 responses have so far been received.

Mr Barrett questioned the matter with the Leader of the House, Robin Cook, during the today's Business Questions.

In a statement, John Barrett MP said:

"The figures I released last week have raised serious questions about the whole consultation process. However, as to date, the Transport Secretary has remained silent on the issue.

"I was delighted to be able to highlight this in the House of Commons and ask Robin Cook to put pressure on the Transport Secretary to come to Parliament and make a statement.

"Unfortunately the Government seem to have resigned themselves to the world of complacency on this issue. Robin Cook's answer that a big response was expected during the final week of the consultation was unacceptable.

"With only four weeks left, it is crucial the Government now takes a lead in advertising the consultation and highlighting the November 30th deadline. Only through a large number of responses and from across Scotland will the Government get a true picture of the feelings of the general public and other interested parties."

ENDS