Written Question · S1W-03784 · Session 1
Whether it was consulted by Her Majesty's Customs and Excise on proposals for exemptions for flights from airports in the Scottish Highland…
The question
To ask the Scottish Executive whether it was consulted by Her Majesty's Customs and Excise on proposals for exemptions for flights from airports in the Scottish Highlands and Islands from Air Passenger Duty; whether it supported such proposals based on low population density; whether it expressed an opinion on the treatment of inter-connecting flights, and why it did not consult the Transport and Environment Committee on this matter.
The answer
The Scottish Executive was not included in HM Customs and Excise's formal consultation exercise on Air Passenger Duty. The Executive is very well aware of the vital importance of lifeline air services to the economic and social wellbeing of the Highlands & Islands of Scotland. Through its regular contacts with the UK Government, the Executive will add its support for changes which will secure exemptions for Highlands & Islands air services in recognition of the vital but fragile nature of many of the routes. It is for the Transport and Environment Committee to consider whether it wishes to comment on this reserved issue.
In the Official Report
No contribution in the Official Report cites S1W-03784 by reference.