Brown faces backbench rebellion over airport expansion
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Opposition to government plans to expand Britain's key airports was mounting yesterday with the emergence of a major backbench rebellion, the threat of more direct action and the prospect of a fresh inquiry into the policy. Already 41 Labour MPs have signed a motion demanding a vote over the proposed construction of a third runway at Heathrow, enough to overturn the Government's majority.
In all, 97 MPs, including six former Labour ministers, have backed the motion. Climate change campaigners are also said to be planning to bring Heathrow's Terminal 1 to a halt next month by invading the check-in area.
Martin Salter, the Labour MP who tabled the motion, said: "There is widespread concern that much of the good work that the Government has done on environmental issues could undermined by this single decision." It also emerged that the expansion plans will come under renewed scrutiny by the Transport Select Committee.
"The Government must not forget the environmental factors, too," said a member of the committee yesterday.
A plea from the Competition Commission calling on the Government not to rule out an expansion of Gatwick airport has also cast doubt on the final go-ahead for Heathrow's third runway.
The Cabinet will be discussing its position on airport expansion over the Christmas recess. Hilary Benn, the Environment Secretary, has publicly expressed concerns about the environmental impact of a third runway and sixth terminal at Heathrow.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments