Member Article

Heathrow expansion: third runway decision due ‘within days’

The Prime Minister David Cameron will be making a final decision on the proposed third runway at Heathrow Airport ‘within days’, according to The Telegraph.

The newspaper reported senior party sources said that they believe the Cabinet subcommittee, led by Cameron, will back the West London airport’s expansion plans.

The proposals have been met with opposition from both sides of the camp, including from Mayor of London Boris Johnson, Conservative mayoral candidate Zac Goldsmith and Shadow Chancellor, John McDonnell - MP for Hayes and Harlington, the constituency in which Heathrow falls.

In July, the plans were given the formal nod of approval by The Airport’s Commission, led by Sir Howard Davies. Gatwick also submitted plans for a new runway but Davies’ independent commission approved Heathrow’s plans for government consideration.

In the past, Cameron has reassured the public that Heathrow would not expand, as residents raised several concerns regarding noise and air pollution. However, today The Telegraph reports that the Prime Minister’s allies have become increasingly convinced of the need to expand Heathrow.

Tory sources have said that because the infrastructure project will not necessarily need new legislation there is no necessity to get their decision through the House of Commons. However, since the issue has caused such heavy opposition, it is expected to be put before MPs for a vote.

If given the go-ahead by the Prime Minister’s sub committee, Heathrow may have to conform to certain conditions including no flights before 6.00 a.m.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Ellen Forster .