£52 million price questioned

For the Conservatives, it's a 'socialist vanity project'; for the Welsh Government it's a necessary step to secure Wales' international reputation. Perhaps the criticism that will cause ministers most concern is the reaction from Cardiff's more successful rival at Bristol.

That suggestion that £52 million was too high a price for an airport that in Bristol's view is likely to depend on potentially unfair Welsh Government assistance is fuel for the political critics of the decision. The Conservatives have been particularly scathing.

Carwyn Jones' response is that the Welsh Government quite simply would not have been able to buy the airport without being able to demonstrate that the price was fair and that it could expand its routes and passenger numbers without breaking any rules.

The First Minister added that he trust Assembly Members will support his government's ambition. He needn't worry because although Labour don't have a majority in the Senedd, the airport takeover is supported by Plaid Cymru.

The Liberal Democrats are also taking the view that everything depends on the detail of the airport sale and the plans for its future.