To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what representations he has made to the United States Government to ensure that British air carriers have the right to purchase a higher share of a US carrier than is currently permitted. [4633]

None. I would expect the issue of investment limits to be part of any UK/US air services negotiations when resumed.

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what measures he will take to ensure that there is equal access to American routes for British air carriers in the event of a merger between American Airlines and British Airways. [4634]

The Government is considering its approach to the resumption of aviation negotiations with the US in the light of the proposed alliance between British Airways and American Airlines. I would expect access by UK air carriers to routes both within and beyond the US to be part of any such negotiations.