British Airways should rename themselves "South East Airways" - Mark Hunter

10.27.01am BST (GMT +0100) Tue 22nd Apr 2008

British Airways should recommit to the North

After British Airways announced that they are cancelling all direct international flights from Manchester Airport including the New York service, Cheadle MP Mark Hunter has called on British Airways to either reconsider their decision or to change their name to "South East Airways".

An EDM submitted by Mr Hunter today calls for British Airways to reconsider its decision because of the massive inconvenience that this would cause to residents and the local economy. The EDM also expresses concern about the knock-on effect on the environment that could be caused by the extra short-haul flights from Manchester to London which might be needed to get North West residents to Gatwick and Heathrow.

This move by BA comes shortly after it had already withdrawn its ground handling staff and Cabin Crew base from Manchester Airport.

Speaking after tabling the Early Day Motion, Mr Hunter said: "This issue was one of those that were raised by concerned constituents while I was out campaigning for the local elections. People are really angry about British Airway's lack of commitment to the North West. First it withdraws its ground handling staff, then it removes the Cabin Crew base at Manchester Airport and now it is cutting down on flights which link Manchester directly to the rest of the world.

I have raised these issues in the House of Commons in Early Day Motions before, and I remain very concerned about the impact that British Airway's actions will have on our jobs, economy and local community.

If British Airways aren't prepared to reconsider their decision they should be honest and re-brand themselves as 'South East Airways' - a name that would be much more representative of their priorities."