WHEN CONFIDENTIAL received this joint statement by the Association of Greater Manchester Authorities and the Manchester Airport Group (MAG) we sort of dismissed it as so vague we couldn't be bothered repeating it.
But since so many other media groups such as the BBC have covered it, we truculently feel compelled to join in, just in case our readers miss out on its vacuity.
So we know MAG wants to expand probably by buying Edinburgh or Stansted Airports we reckon, and we know they want a big investor to get involved. But we don't really know who, where or when.
Here is the release:
'Following a strategic review of the group's performance and future prospects, MAG is pursuing two key recommendations: one to explore the opportunity to add another quality airport to the group and the other, to bring in new equity investment as part of the deal. Both of these recommendations are interdependent and one will not happen without the other.
'MAG is already a key driver of jobs and growth in the north of England, but these proposals would allow the group to strengthen this position - and deliver maximum value for the local authority shareholders.
'To make this possible, new governance arrangements are necessary, which each of the 10 Greater Manchester authorities would have to consider. The Association of Greater Manchester Authorities has agreed an in-principle framework for a new structure which will be considered by the individual local authorities over the coming weeks.
'In parallel with this process, MAG will begin to invite detailed proposals from private investors. No final decisions will be taken - and no further substantive statement issued - before a potential investment partner has been identified and detailed arrangements progressed. We anticipate it will take a few months to reach this point.'
Marvellous, so we know MAG wants to expand (probably by buying Edinburgh or Stansted Airports), and we know they want a big investor to get involved. But we don't really who, where or when. And they're not going to let on.
Not sure why we had the statement at all really.
Still, dear readers, at least you know what we know.
We Can Confirm This Is A Plane At Manchester Airport
