easyJet has published its response, including major concerns, to the consultation document on the future of airport regulation in the UK, released by the UK Government's Department for Transport.
Andy Harrison, easyJet chief executive, remarked, "It is widely agreed that the system of UK airport regulation has clearly failed and requires a fundamental restructuring. We welcome the Government’s desire to lead change and consult with the industry. There are three main areas which need re-thinking.
“Whilst we understand the Government’s desire to make the CAA responsible for economic regulation of UK airports, the CAA currently lacks the resources, expertise and, above all, credibility to be an effective regulator. It would be a high risk strategy to put so much more regulatory power into such an unproven structure," Harrison declared. “Furthermore, we believe that there needs to be a proper appeals process, which is a glaring omission in the current system. The only body that has shown itself to be willing and capable of controlling the BAA airport monopoly is the Competition Commission, which should be promoted, not marginalised, in deciding which airports should be regulated.
“More generally, it is important that the focus of regulation is to ensure that the monopoly airports deliver an acceptable level of service and value to their customers. This means focussing on the needs of the airlines as well as passengers.”
The DoD has changed its structures and is been increasing efforts to facilitate access to loans by companies interested in working with artificial intelligence, advanced materials and semiconductors, biotechnology and quantum science.
India has approved millions of dollars in new military purchases, most of which will go to public sector companies.
The main obstacles to overcoming risks in the region are a lack of a strong cybersecurity culture and inadequate funds to invest in this domain given a widespread Chinese presence in the region.
MBDA is adapting to supply chain pressures as the Russian invasion of Ukraine leads to increased demand for armaments.
Despite the additional funding promised this week, the UK armed forces still look set to face cutbacks, and maintaining international commitments to AUKUS and GCAP may limit the options for other programmes.
This week on the Shephard Defence Podcast, senior naval reporter Harry Lye and military training & simulation reporter Norbert Neumann chat with Professor John Louth.
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