Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, pursuant to the Answer of 22 June to Question 59209 on Aviation: Coronavirus, when the second phase of the aviation restart and recovery expert group’s work is expected to start; what the timescale is for the review of the membership of that group; if he will make it his policy for that membership to include (a) climate change experts, (b) representatives from environmental NGOs, (c) representatives from local communities affected by airport expansion plans; and if he will make a statement.

The International Aviation Taskforce’s Expert Steering Group (ESG) provided industry the opportunity to feed into the practical application of any new policies and co-produce solutions where possible. ESG has met its purpose and has undoubtedly been vital in achieving the milestones of producing health measures guidance and helping government establish Travel Corridors.

Whilst our absolute focus in Government at this time is combating COVID-19, we do recognise that it’s important that we continue to work on our longer-term priorities including tackling climate change and improving air quality. The Transport Secretary announced the formation of a new ‘Jet Zero Council’, which will bring together government, aviation, academia, as well as environmental groups represented through the AEF, to make net zero emission flights possible.

A copy of the Transport Secretary’s response to the letter dated 8 July 2020 will be placed in the Library.