Reports have emerged today that the Government will not take a decision about new runways until the end of the year (1). The report of the Airports Commission, which will recommend a new runway at either Heathrow or Gatwick, is expected to be published at the end of this month but it looks as if the Government will delay its decision until shortly before Christmas.
John Stewart, chair of HACAN, which campaigns against a third runway at Heathrow, said, “We can only speculate why the Government is delaying its decision but it is known that there is considerable opposition to Heathrow expansion in the Cabinet with at least five Ministers (2) opposed to a third runway”
Stewart added, “Business will not welcome the uncertainty but it will also mean continued blight for local residents faced with the threat of their homes being demolished or those who face the prospect of living under a new flight path.”
The news comes a day after Richmond MP Zac Goldsmith announced that he is looking to become the Conservative candidate for Mayor of London. Goldsmith is well-known as a staunch opponent of a third runway.
ENDS
Notes for Editors:
(1). The report is in today’s Financial Times http://www.ft.com/cms/s/0/19287c5c-0eb9-11e5-9ae0-00144feabdc0.html?siteedition=uk#axzz3cbkgtPGV
(2). Theresa May, Philip Hammond, Theresa Villiers, Greg Hands and Justine Greening are known opponents. And Boris Johnson, a member of the political cabinet, is a vocal opponent.
For more information:
John Stewart on 0207 737 6641 or 0795385650