Special parking privileges for MPs at airports including Gatwick will be scrapped.

Airports operator BAA has confirmed the permits for Parliamentarians would be withdrawn.

The perk was enjoyed by 847 peers, MPs and MEPs and is worth about £1,300 a year. The permits were provided for official Government business abroad but had become increasingly unpopular with other drivers.

BAA chairman Marcus Agius said: "A substantial number of the company's shareholders feel it is now time to discontinue the scheme."

The company said the concession will be closed to new entrants with immediate effect.

Wednesday September 15, 2004