Subsidies for Rolls-Royce might seem a bit rich, but they are inevitable

Every country supports its aerospace business, while keeping the production at home is vital. At least with Rolls, the UK is backing a winner Rolls-Royce, the engine-maker and defence firm that is spitting out so much cash it can shove £7bn to £9bn towards buying back shares over the next three years, would like UK taxpayers to find a few quid – reportedly up to £200m as a first slug – to help fund one its big bets. The company would “appreciate” financial support from the government to smoot...

By Nils Pratley