To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what steps he is taking to ensure the safety of passengers and crew of (a) airlines and (b) passenger ships against the SARS outbreak. [111003]

I refer the hon. Member to the Statement made by my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Health on 28 April 2003 Official Report, columns 38–41. My officials have worked closely with the Department of Health to ensure that appropriate information on recognising the symptoms of SARs and on how to seek appropriate medical advice is given to those travelling to the UK from infected areas. The situation is being monitored closely and further action will be taken if necessary on public health grounds.