Labour

Government must consider all options for aviation capacity - Maria Eagle & Mary Creagh

Maria Eagle MP, Labour's Shadow Transport Secretary, responding to reports that the Government is to consult on plans for a new airport in the Thames Estuary, said:

"The Government is in a complete mess on aviation. Having ruled out a third runway at Heathrow before the election, the Prime Minister has until now refused to even consider alternative options that would address the capacity issues facing the industry particularly in the South East. If it is true that David Cameron is now willing to consider a new London airport then it would be an incredible u-turn from his pre-election position.

"Instead of making up their aviation policy as they go along through briefings to the press, Ministers should finally accept Labour's offer of cross-party talks to set a long term strategy for the industry. All possible options to address future aviation capacity should be considered, not just the possibility of a new airport. Tough new targets on reducing emissions from aviation and the impact on the local environment must be central to any outcome."

Mary Creagh MP, Labour’s Shadow Environment Secretary, added:

"If reports prove correct that the Government is looking seriously at the possibility of building a major new Thames Estuary airport then it raises real questions about the motivation behind George Osborne's announcement of a review of the Habitat Regulations.

"As Maria Eagle has made clear, any decision on new airport capacity must follow the fullest possible assessment of the impact on the local environment."