To ask the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment, in relation to air passenger duty, what action she intends to take to ensure that Northern Ireland will be treated on a no less favourable basis than the Republic of Ireland to ensure fair competition between airlines and airports on the island of Ireland.

The impact of Air Passenger Duty (APD) on Northern Ireland is exacerbated because of competitive pressure from the Republic of Ireland, which has become even more acute following the Irish Government’s decision to reduce, and possibly remove altogether, their equivalent tax.

I and Ministerial colleagues have made representations to HM Treasury Ministers on the impact of APD on Northern Ireland. During his visit to Northern Ireland on 17 June 2011 the Chancellor of the Exchequer referred to APD and the particular challenges presented by Northern Ireland’s land border with the Republic of Ireland.

The Department of Finance and Personnel (DFP) has led on the Northern Ireland response to an HM Treasury consultation on the reform of APD. My officials have worked closely with counterparts in DFP to ensure that a strong case has been put to HM Treasury in respect of the impact of APD on Northern Ireland.