To ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster if he is satisfied that the interests of passengers are fully protected in travel schemes to the Caribbean offered by companies such as Airtours; and if he will make a statement.

Yes. Airlines operating charter flights originating in the United Kingdom and carrying United Kingdom passengers are required to operate aircraft in accordance with the airworthiness standards of the state with whom the aircraft is registered. Such standards must be equal to or above the airworthiness standards specified by the International Civil Aviation Organisation. Operators are also required to maintain adequate insurance cover. Charter flights of this nature must also be organised through a travel organiser holding a valid Air Travel Organisers Licence issued by the United Kingdom Civil Aviation Authority.