Prime Minister's question asked in the House of Commons, by Andrew MacKay (Conservative). It was answered on Wednesday, 16 December 2009 on behalf of the Prime Minister.

Engagements

Question: The whole House will endorse what the right hon. and learned Lady said about those fallen soldiers, and our thoughts will very much be with their families. However, may I turn to the home front and other families who will be desperately worried that their own loved ones might not return home for Christmas because of the British Airways cabin crew strike? Although there has been good news this morning that Unite and British Airways might now be talking, may I have an assurance from the deputy Prime Minister that she will use her considerable influence with the trade unions to ensure that this damaging strike is called off as soon as possible?

Answer: Both the Prime Minister and the Transport Secretary have said that they, like I am sure everyone in the whole House, want to see that a strike does not take place. That is important not only for those who have travel plans this Christmas either to go abroad to see their families or to have their families join them, but for the long-term future of BA. I hope that when the talks take place this afternoon, they will reach a settlement.

Secondary information