Airport Expansion

Tolhurst responded on behalf of the Secretary of State for Transport. She emphasised that airport expansion is crucial for boosting global connectivity and economic growth, but must be done within environmental obligations. The Government will not appeal the Court's judgment and are considering next steps carefully.

McDonald welcomed the Minister to her place and criticised the Government for relying on environmental campaigners and courts to protect against illegal and environmentally destructive policies. He questioned the legal advice received by the Transport Secretary, and urged the Government to rule out climate-busting airport expansion.

Merriman asked if the Government will intervene to stop expansion if Heathrow is successful at the Supreme Court. Tolhurst confirmed that the outcome of any ruling will be respected.

Brown questioned whether the Government plans to sit back and do nothing, rather than making a decision on Heathrow expansion. He also inquired about reviewing Heathrow's net zero plans and incentivising biofuels.

Welcomed the new Minister to her position and highlighted that Heathrow is crucial for UK trade, asking if expansion is compatible with net-zero targets.

Acknowledged the importance of airports for economic growth and trading. Emphasised that the court's judgment did not rule out expansion as incompatible with climate change goals.

Argued that, despite voting to support Heathrow's expansion for economic reasons, the Government should take responsibility and consider revisiting their plans based on the court’s judgment.

Supported Heathrow's expansion for economic benefits and underlined its compatibility with net-zero commitments.

Expressed concern over uncertainty caused by the debate on Heathrow’s expansion, especially for regional airports like Liverpool John Lennon and Manchester.

Argued that a lack of slots at Heathrow impacts northern businesses' ability to connect globally, questioning if using foreign airports aligns with climate change targets or benefits UK plc.

Critiqued the expansion plans citing detrimental health and economic effects, suggesting a revision of national policy to rule out further runway expansions across the UK.

Highlighted the importance of regional connectivity like Teesside International for levelling up and asked about steps being taken towards this goal.

Called for a clear timetable from the Government to review their national policy statement concerning Heathrow's expansion.

Asked if the current decision would reopen debates about a Thames Estuary airport, which was previously opposed by colleagues and constituents in north Kent and south Essex.

Expressed disappointment at the Government's approach to Heathrow expansion, arguing it is vital for regional connectivity and questioned when the new airport strategy would be published.

Welcomed the Minister but inquired if she could name a successful case of twin hub airports operation globally.

Many people will be bewildered and disappointed by the Government’s attitude towards the judges’ decision on this nationally important project, which is also important to places like Northern Ireland in terms of international connectivity. The Government's non-challenging stance gives a green light to environmental Luddites who may obstruct major investment projects using the Climate Change Act 2008.

The Heathrow expansion project was a private sector initiative, not funded by taxpayers. It adhered to strict criteria regarding noise, pollution and climate change as outlined in the Airports National Policy Statement (ANPS). The Government recognises the potential for appeal but maintains their stance on meeting environmental standards.

Innovation and technological advances are key to addressing climate change challenges. Expansion of Heathrow airport is crucial for economic development, particularly in the western part of the UK.

The expansion could lead to 17 million fewer passengers from non-London airports and result in a loss of 27,000 jobs. Not expanding Heathrow provides an opportunity to address the north-south economic imbalance.

The court ruling introduces uncertainty regarding airport expansions across the country. Any potential expansion must meet strict environmental criteria on climate change, pollution and other factors.

The Government's ambitions for net zero emissions are not being met. Communities near airports like Heathrow face significant environmental impacts. The Minister is asked to pay tribute to John McDonnell for his long-standing campaign on this issue.

The judgment could export carbon emissions and jobs to competitors, particularly impacting the south-west. Analysis is needed to determine if regional airports like Bristol can take up some of Heathrow’s potential.

There is no quick technological fix for reducing aviation emissions; demand management and reduction are essential based on the Committee on Climate Change's recommendations. Steps should be taken to reduce aviation emissions, including considering a frequent flyer levy.

The Minister is asked about the Government’s policy regarding Gatwick airport.

Residents in Lewisham face serious health concerns due to air quality and noise from London City airport and Heathrow. Regulations should be introduced to prohibit soundwaves exceeding World Health Organisation limits.

Further delay is a disappointment for Cornwall businesses about to lose their current Heathrow slot. The expansion of Heathrow is essential for achieving global Britain ambitions, but the Government's policy on Heathrow has not changed despite this setback.

Supports a third runway at Heathrow as it can benefit Northern Ireland and boost economy through better flight connections. The Minister is asked to confirm that airports in Northern Ireland will not be disadvantaged by this decision.

The Government's desertion of Heathrow due to the court ruling undermines confidence in their commitment to the national infrastructure plan. The decision not to appeal was because it was a privately financed project, but meeting environmental standards is paramount.

Welcomed the Government’s commitment to levelling up transport infrastructure, asking for Northern Powerhouse Rail and TransPennine rail upgrade support as well as recognising regional airports such as Manchester and Leeds Bradford in global connectivity.

Acknowledged the importance of regional transport projects including Northern Powerhouse Rail, High Speed 2, A66 northern trans-Pennine link, and £5 billion investment for bus and cycle services. Also committed to supporting Carlisle Lake District airport and Manston airport.

Asked the Minister for Government support and a degree of subsidy for newly formed Carlisle Lake District airport until it is fully established.

Discussed the potential of Manston airport on the border between North Thanet and South Thanet, emphasising its importance for aviation infrastructure in a new global Britain.

Called for Government action to proceed with Heathrow expansion decision despite judicial interference, stressing the need for economic growth and future prosperity.