Written question asked by Laurence Robertson (Conservative) on Tuesday, 8 March 2005, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 22 March 2005. It was answered by Charlotte Atkins (Labour) on Tuesday, 22 March 2005 on behalf of the Department for Transport.

Dept for Transport

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what discussions he has had with (a) BAA and (b) other airport companies about improving (i) the facilities and (ii) cleanliness at UK airports; and if he will make a statement.

Answer: Mr. Laurence Robertson: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what discussions he has had with (a) BAA and (b) other airport companies about improving (i) the facilities and (ii) cleanliness at UK airports; and if he will make a statement. [221325] Charlotte Atkins :[holding answer 14 March 2005]: Regular meetings with BAA and other airport operators present a good opportunity to discuss a range of airport issues. However, the refurbishment of existing airport facilities and routine methods of maintaining cleanliness are primarily matters for the operators to decide, with appropriate regard to all relevant health and safety legislation. Enforcement arrangements are subject to local arrangements at each airport but generally the Health and Safety Executive is responsible for enforcement airside, while local authority inspectors are responsible for enforcement at terminal buildings and landside activities. Local authority inspectors are also responsible for enforcing food hygiene and food safety legislation throughout airports, and they consider health, safety and welfare issues affecting employees, including provision and adequacy of welfare activities.

Secondary information