"BAE Go, But Business As Usual for Airbus"- Öpik

2.35.29pm BST (GMT +0100) Fri 7th Apr 2006

"The Government needs to make sure that Wales and the UK continue to play a central part in this industry."

Commenting on the announcement today that BAE systems is going to sell its 20% stake in Airbus, Lembit Öpik, MP for Montgomeryshire and Leader of the Welsh Liberal Democrats, said: "Having spoken with Steve Thomas, Government Affairs Executive at Airbus UK, I'm relieved to report that this sale shouldn't have a major impact on jobs and business in North Wales or indeed anywhere in the UK.

"I don't really understand why BAE is choosing to sell up its share in a highly profitable business. However, I do know that the other shareholders are smart enough to see the benefits of sticking with the extremely professional and effective UK airbus operation.

"Steve Thomas assures me that for Airbus it will be business as usual. Having investigated the situation I accept that.

"However I do feel that the Government ought to make sure that the UK continues to play a central part this industry, as it would be absolutely foolhardy and short-sighted to become a lame partner in the world's most successful commercial aircraft manufacturer."