European Geostationary Navigation Overlay Service
Thursday, 9 January 2025
Contributions
Graham Leadbitter (Moray West, Nairn and Strathspey) (SNP)Scottish National Party
2. If she will review the UK’s participation in the European Geostationary Navigation Overlay Service programme.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Transport (Mike Kane)Labour
The Department for Transport is working with the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology to consider options for the UK’s access to a navigation system of this type, which lapsed following Brexit. This work is ongoing, and no decision has been made at this time.
I also welcome the Secretary of State to her new role, and I look forward to working across party boundaries where possible. EGNOS is a satellite enhancement system for GPS. Prior to Brexit, Highlands and Islands Airports Ltd, which is headquartered in my constituency, had been working with National Air Traffic Services on developing the use of the system, and invested a lot of time and effort. It would increase mapping accuracy and, vitally, enable planes flying lifeline air services to land in a broader range of circumstances, improving service and reliability. As the Minister said, that work has stalled since Brexit, but the Government can re-engage with the programme should they choose, as it is open to non-EU members. Will the Minister commit to doing that?
I am grateful to the hon. Member for putting this on my radar. [ Interruption. ] Too early? [ Laughter. ]
Mr SpeakerSpeaker
Don’t give up the day job.
It is an important issue. We are considering the costs and benefits of all options, and it is very good particularly for regional airports. We are working with the EU to identify areas where we can strengthen co-operation for mutual benefit, but it is still too early to discuss that specific area in detail. I hope to come back to the House at a later time with a more considered view.
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Source: UK Parliament Hansard API. Debate ID: 4803560.