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Heathrow Airport Expansion

24 May 2023

Lead MP

Fleur Anderson
Putney
Lab

Responding Minister

Jesse Norman

Tags

EconomyTransportClimate
Word Count: 9197
Other Contributors: 11

At a Glance

Fleur Anderson raised concerns about heathrow airport expansion in Westminster Hall. A government minister responded.

Key Requests to Government:

The Government should review and amend the airport's national policy statement to ensure it aligns with climate targets. They must publish a strategy on managing and reducing greenhouse gas emissions from aviation over decades, as well as provide clear safeguards on air quality for residents in affected areas.

How the Debate Unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:

Lead Contributor

Putney
Opened the debate
Residents across south-west London and the country are strongly opposed to Heathrow expansion due to increased carbon emissions, air quality issues, noise pollution, and congestion. The planned expansion would result in an additional 260,000 flights a year, a site size of 950 acres, and 43,000 car park spaces. These changes are incompatible with the UK's climate targets as Heathrow is already the largest single polluter, emitting half of all aviation emissions in the UK. The expansion would also undermine regional jobs and economic growth.

Government Response

Jesse Norman
Government Response
The Minister acknowledged the strong opinions regarding Heathrow expansion and noted that the Government's position aligns closely with that of the Opposition. He referenced the Airports Commission's recommendation for a new north-west runway at Heathrow in 2015, followed by extensive legal challenges and reviews of the airports national policy statement. The Government continues to support airport growth justified under strict climate change obligations and has published a jet zero strategy focusing on decarbonisation through new aircraft technology, setting targets for emissions-free operations, and addressing sustainable aviation fuels. The Minister emphasised that further work is needed due to uncertainties from the pandemic's impact on aviation demand.
Assessment & feedback
Summary accuracy

About Westminster Hall Debates

Westminster Hall debates are a chance for MPs to raise important issues affecting their constituents and get a response from a government minister. Unlike Prime Minister's Questions, these debates are more in-depth and collaborative. The MP who secured the debate speaks first, other MPs can contribute, and a minister responds with the government's position.