Article from BTNews 24 OCTOBER 2016
Runway decision put off again
Accusations of dither and delay resurfaced last week after the widely-expected statement on runway capacity in the South East was put off again by the government. It is now expected tomorrow (Tuesday 25 October). See also COMMENT in this issue.
Even if an announcement is made then, Prime Minister Theresa May in a further shock said whatever choice was recommended, a final decision would not be made for at least a year.
Amid widespread criticism, she said the move was to give ministers including Boris Johnson who are opposed to a third runway at Heathrow the freedom to voice their opposition.
She was reported to have told Cabinet colleagues those with “strongly held views” would not be put in the “uncomfortable” position of having to back the government’s view if they do not agree with it.
London mayor Sadiq Khan was among critics, saying the wait was affecting the city's business prospects. "The decision to yet again delay … will cause unnecessary uncertainty for British businesses already struggling with Brexit,” he added.
"Now it's time to get on with building a new runway at Gatwick, which can be built quicker, cheaper, and without the years of legal and political battles that Heathrow clearly faces."
OUR READERS' FINEST WORDS (All times and dates are GMT)
All comments are filtered to exclude any excesses but the Editor does not have to agree with what is being said. 100 words maximum
Henk Heiden,
This ongoing delay about making the final decision can now be regarded as one of the worst soap operas in British aviation.