'Aurigny has to remain as a States-owned airline'

THERE are no guarantees that Derek Coates can offer which would make a sale of Aurigny to Blue Islands acceptable, a former chief minister has said.

Mike Torode, pictured, said he felt compelled to come out of retirement to have his say on the proposed deal because protecting the Gatwick air link is so crucial to the island.

Treasury struck an 'in principle' deal with Blue Islands last month that would see the airlines merged. Part of the agreement would see the States retain control over the prized Gatwick slots in the form of a 'golden share' that it would hold.

Mr Coates has also assured islanders that he would never do anything to harm the economies of either Guernsey or Alderney – guaranteeing that crucial links to the islands would be protected.

But Mr Torode, who worked in the aviation industry for many years before entering the States, said no amount of personal guarantees or legal agreements would convince him to sell.

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