Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, with reference to the email correspondence to British Airways staff of 2 June 2020 on the Coronavirus Jobs Retention Scheme, what discussions he has had with (a) Cabinet colleagues and (b) representatives of the International Airlines Group on proposed redundancies and changes to terms and conditions of employment.

The Government recognises that, despite the measures put in place to protect the economy, there remain serious challenges for the aviation sector, and we are working at pace to ensure the recovery of the aviation sector. Departments across Government, including the Department for Transport, are working together to progress options to support individuals affected.

I appreciate that this is a very worrying time for BA’s loyal and devoted airline staff and their families. Although these are commercial decisions for companies, they are decisions which I nevertheless profoundly regret. It would not be appropriate to comment on any individual discussions.