Senator IAN MACDONALD (Regional Services, Territories and Local Government) (3:02 PM) —Yesterday Senator Mackay asked me a question in my capacity as Minister representing the Minister for Transport and Regional Services regarding the long-term operating plan of Sydney airport. Mr Anderson has provided me with the following answer.

The minister is aware of the letter from the Chief Executive of Airservices Australia, Mr Bill Pollard, sent to a number of organisations including the Sydney Airport Corporation at the end of last week. The letter canvasses the option of Airservices Australia handing over the runway selection to the Sydney Airport Corporation. Mr Pollard's letter does not set out the views of the government, and the government does not agree with the option canvassed in the letter. Airservices Australia has statutory responsibility for air traffic control and the carrying out of the long-term operating plan for Sydney airport. Airservices Australia will continue to be responsible for air traffic control and runway selection at Sydney airport.

Senator Mackay also asked me about the comments that were made by my colleague the member for Bradfield, Dr Nelson. I am advised that Dr Nelson agrees with the minister's position set out in this answer.