Prestwick reviewcall

The delayed sale of Prestwick Airport should be subject to a public review, says one MSP.

South of Scotland Tory list MSP Brian Whittle says the long-running saga to get the flight hub back into the private sector now requires answers. It follows the news that the Scottish Government, who bought the airport for £1 in 2013, have abandoned current attempts to sell.

Around £42 million of taxpayers’ cash has been ploughed into the base during the intervening years, £33 million of which has already been written off.

And Holyrood chiefs have confirmed they will not proceed with a proposed sale after reviewing latest bids on the table. It comes with Prestwick returning to a £500,000 operating profitable status after shifting its activities away from passenger travel and focusing on freight, aircraft maintenance and refuelling.

Mr Whittle said: “From conversations I’ve had with parties interested in buying the airport, I’m convinced there have been serious failings in the process, compounded by a lack of openness on the part of the Scottish Government.

“We need an urgent independent review of what’s happened to give any future bidders confidence in the process and ensure a successful future for Prestwick Airport.”

A Scottish Government spokesperson said: “In reaching the decision not to proceed with the sale at this time, Ministers acted in the best interests of both Prestwick Airport and Scottish taxpayers. However, they still intend for the airport to return to the private sector at the appropriate time and opportunity.

“Meanwhile, the Scottish Government remains committed to the business, which continues to develop as a specialist airport, carving a niche in a very competitive aviation market.”