Airports: Runways Debate

Full Debate: Read Full Debate

Lord Clinton-Davis

Main Page: Lord Clinton-Davis (Labour - Life peer)
Tuesday 5th July 2016

(8 years, 4 months ago)

Lords Chamber
Read Full debate Read Hansard Text
Viscount Younger of Leckie Portrait Viscount Younger of Leckie
- Hansard - - - Excerpts

On the question of Gatwick or Heathrow, the noble Viscount will know that three shortlisted schemes have been put forward—two at Heathrow and one at Gatwick. That continues to be the main focus. At some point an announcement will be made—but the Statement from the Secretary of State on 30 June was very clear.

Lord Clinton-Davis Portrait Lord Clinton-Davis (Lab)
- Hansard - -

When do the Government expect to make a decision on this issue? It has been delayed for so long, and every delay results in grievous loss to this country in world markets. What are the Government going to do about it?

Viscount Younger of Leckie Portrait Viscount Younger of Leckie
- Hansard - - - Excerpts

It is fair to say that the expression “long-running saga” can be redefined. On a serious note, the Government made it clear that rolling out the new runway was extremely important. In December 2013, the Airport Commission’s report stated that the need was acute and that by 2030 we needed to address the capacity issue. Failing to address it could cost passengers £21 billion to £23 billion in fare increases and delays, and £30 billion to £45 billion for the wider economy. I am unable to give a timetable at the moment, but the noble Lord will be aware that there are issues such as air quality that are being analysed at present.