The Environment Secretary confirmed that any Heathrow expansion plans will undergo proper consultation. This comes as the government hints at supporting a third runway for the airport.
London: The Environment Secretary recently mentioned that any plans to expand Heathrow Airport would need proper consultation. This suggests the government might be leaning towards a third runway.
Steve Reed talked about possible solutions to make the West London project work. He also pointed out how Labour’s push for economic growth could fit with environmental goals.
During a conference, he was asked how expansion could align with the UK’s climate commitments. Reed said that while it’s all speculation now, any proposal would involve proper consultation.
He hopes this process won’t take decades like before. Good decisions can be made without dragging things out too long.
Reed also reflected on his previous opposition to Heathrow expansion. He had supported expanding Gatwick instead, believing it would benefit South London economically.
Next week, Chancellor Rachel Reeves is expected to support the third runway in her speech about growth. She’ll also back expansions at Gatwick and Luton airports.
Some senior Labour members, including Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, have previously opposed these aviation proposals. They’ve been vocal about their concerns.
Energy Secretary Ed Miliband, despite his criticisms, stated he wouldn’t resign if the government backed a new runway. He emphasized that aviation is crucial for economic growth within carbon budgets.
Meanwhile, re-elected Mayor of London, Sir Sadiq Khan, remains against expanding the city’s airports. He reiterated to the London Assembly that while aviation is important, we’re facing a climate crisis.
Khan highlighted three main concerns if expansion were to happen: meeting carbon targets, noise pollution, and air pollution. He’s clear that his views on Heathrow expansion haven’t changed.
