5. To ask the Scottish Government whether it will provide an update on the latest expression of interest in buying Glasgow Prestwick airport. (S6O-02962)

At the Economy and Fair Work Committee meeting on 6 December, I set out details of an expression of interest in purchasing Prestwick airport. Other parties have also approached Glasgow Prestwick with a potential interest.

Due to commercial sensitivities, as Mr Simpson will understand, it would not be appropriate to share further details, including the identity of an organisation behind any expression of interest, at this time. However, I will endeavour to update Parliament at the earliest appropriate point, should a proposal be received.

I thank the cabinet secretary for that very interesting answer. From what he said, it sounds as though there are two expressions of interest on the table. There have been a number over the years, and they have always hit a barrier. Can the cabinet secretary tell us exactly what the Scottish Government is looking for in a buyer for the airport?

I thank Graham Simpson for his constructive question and acknowledge his on-going interest in this area.

The Scottish Government intends to return Glasgow Prestwick airport to the private sector at the appropriate time and with the best opportunity. Any decision to sell must be informed by what is right for the long-term success of the business and the contribution that it makes to the local economy.

The airport is not being actively marketed for sale at present, but it is understood within the aviation industry that ministers are open to considering credible purchase offers. Any potential purchaser must demonstrate how it will maintain Glasgow Prestwick airport as an operational airport and maximise its economic benefits and employment potential. We must be confident that any sale would represent good value for the taxpayer and put the business on a firm footing.

As I said, I am happy to continue to liaise with Mr Simpson, the committee and Parliament as the expressions of interest progress.