asked the Minister for Transport in view of public concern about the financing of Aer Lingus and preservation of existing jobs therein, if he will make a statement on the Government's policy for financing the continued operation of the North Atlantic route.
Written Answers. - Government Policy on Aer Lingus/Aerlínte
453.
Following a detailed examination of the financial position of Aer Lingus/Aerlínte, with particular reference to the losses at present being incurred on the companies' transatlantic services, the Government proposes to increase the authorised share capital of Aerlínte by £60 million and to extend by £75 million the limit on the amount of the air companies State-guaranteed borrowing. I intend to introduce the necessary legislation early in the next session.
The Government have decided to subscribe £10 million by way of additional equity investment in Aerlínte in the current financial year and will consider the question of further equity investment in the context of the 1983 Public Capital Programme.