Mike Kane comments on the transport select committee report into covid-19’s effects on aviation

Mike Kane MP, Labour’s Shadow Aviation Minister, commenting on the transport select committee report into covid-19’s effects on the aviation industry, said:

“This cross party report lays out in stark detail that the Government has failed in its fundamental duty to protect jobs and livelihoods in response to the covid-19 crisis. 

“Labour has consistently called for a sectoral deal that supports the whole aviation industry including the supply chain based on our six conditions. Tory Ministers have failed to act and workers are paying the price.”

ENDS

Notes to editors

1.   There are 1.6 million jobs dependent on the UK’s aviation sector. In recent weeks, Virgin Atlantic, Ryanair and British Airways have all announced job cuts.  

2.   Labour is calling for the Government to act quickly and put in place a support package for the aviation sector which ensures that:

• Jobs are protected
• There is a clear commitment to tackling climate change via, for example, cleaner fuels and low emission technology;
• Any company in receipt of money must ensure their tax base is in the UK;
• No dividends should be paid until the company is proven to be commercially viable;
• A commitment to pay UK-based suppliers is a priority;
• All operators fully comply, without delay, with all consumer rights regulations.