To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what plans he has to encourage an increase in freight and passenger traffic using Prestwick airport; and if he will make a statement.

It is for airlines to decide whether they wish to mount services using Prestwick, and for BAA plc, as the owner of the airport, to encourage them to do so. Proposals put forward for new services by foreign airlines will be considered as quickly as possible within the framework of the appropriate air service agreements, and account will be taken of the Government's wish to see effective use of Prestwick.