After years of dither and delay, it is welcome that progress is finally being made on runway expansion – Andy McDonald

Andy McDonald MP, Labour’s Shadow Transport Secretary,
commenting on the Government’s statement on Heathrow, said:

“Labour
has consistently been pushing for a decision on runway expansion in the South
East of England so after years of dither and delay, it is welcome that progress
is finally being made.

“However,
there are still outstanding issues including how Heathrow expansion can be
squared with meeting the UK’s climate change objectives and demonstrating that
local noise and environmental impacts can be minimised.

“This
can be achieved, but only in the context of a coherent aviation strategy that
works for the country not just London. It starts with confirming our membership
of the European Aviation Safety Agency, as well as action on cleaner fuels and
improving road and rail access to our international gateway airports.”