Thank you for contacting me about expansion at Heathrow Airport.
The completion of a third runway at Heathrow has the potential to bring significant economic benefits. Although I recognise environmental concerns, there is no realistic alternative to long haul flights so we will continue to need airport capacity. Therefore, in principle, I do not oppose the construction of a third runway as long as sensible local mitigations are a part of the plan. Nevertheless, we must acknowledge that the decision to expand Heathrow Airport must be based not only on the principle but also on practicalities. I would note that there remain clear and significant logistical barriers that make its construction challenging.
As a consequence, the Government and Heathrow must address these clear challenges in the upcoming airports national policy statement, the statutory consultation and the development consent order.
Thank you again for taking the time to contact me.
