To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what research (a) has been undertaken by and (b) is available to his Department on future projections of the need for airport capacity in Sheffield and South Yorkshire; and if he will make a statement. (97901)

“The Future of Air Transport” White Paper sets out the conclusions of the Government on the case for future expansion at airports, following extensive study and consultation. The Government's consultation document on the future demand for regional air services in the north of England preceded the White Paper and informed its content.

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport pursuant to the answer of 13 September 2006, Official Report, columns 2264-65W, on Sheffield airport, what assessment the Government have made of the implications for (a) road traffic and (b) public transport of developing the (i) airport at Doncaster and (ii) airport at Sheffield. (97861)

“The Future of Air Transport” White Paper made clear that the future development of Robin Hood airport Doncaster Sheffield and Sheffield city airport would need to be determined through the normal regional and local planning processes. Surface access provision will be addressed alongside other planning considerations.

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport pursuant to the answer of 13 September 2006, Official Report, columns 2264-65W, on Sheffield airport, what assessment the Government have made of the need for an airport in (a) Sheffield and (b) Doncaster. (97862)

The Government’s policy on the development of airport capacity in the United Kingdom is contained in “The Future of Air Transport” White Paper, following extensive study and consultation. The White Paper made clear that the future development of Robin Hood airport Doncaster Sheffield and Sheffield city airport would need to be determined through the normal regional and local planning processes.

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport pursuant to the answer of 13 September 2006, Official Report, columns 2264-65W, on Sheffield airport, whether Sheffield and Doncaster airports are owned in whole or in part by the same person. (97863)

Robin Hood airport Doncaster Sheffield is owned and operated by Peel Airports Group. Peel Airports and Sheffield Business Park Ltd. are joint owners of Sheffield city airport.

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport pursuant to the answer of 13 September 2006, Official Report, columns 2264-65W, on Sheffield airport, whether (a) his Department and (b) legal provisions require the runway at Sheffield airport to be accessible for general aviation. (97864)

The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) is responsible for regulating civil airports in the United Kingdom. The CAA is not aware of any legal provisions that prevent access to the runway at Sheffield city airport by general aviation. In licensing Sheffield city airport, the CAA does not confer on any person the right to use the aerodrome without the consent of the licensee.