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Brown scraps 'Blair Force One'
26/03/2008 21:21 - (SA)
London - The government has scrapped plans for two private jets to be used exclusively by senior ministers and the royal family, arguing that an American-style "Air Force One" fleet would be too costly.
Former Prime Minister Tony Blair, shortly before leaving office last year, gave the go ahead for two private planes for official travel - dubbed "Blair Force One" by the media.
But Gordon Brown has decided that the financial and environmental cost of a personalised long-haul plane like the one used by US President George W Bush is not justified.
The Department of Transport said that the long-distance travel needs of the royal family and government ministers would continue to be met by chartered or scheduled flights.
One small aircraft will be bought for official use within the United Kingdom, the department said.
"This approach provides the best solution for all users whilst minimising the financial cost and environmental impact of the new service," it added.
- Reuters
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