EXTENSION OF HEATHROW CONSULTATION STILL INADEQUATE

12.00.00am GMT Mon 19th Nov 2007

Local MP Susan Kramer has told Aviation Minister Jim Fitzpatrick MP that plans to extend the Heathrow consultation period to 14 weeks from 12 weeks to allow for the Christmas holiday is still inadequate.

The consultation on Heathrow expansion which could see a doubling of flights could begin as early as this week.

Kramer said:"This will be the most important consultation ever for local people affected by noise from aircraft. The Government's proposals could almost double flights to 800,000 a year.

"I am totally outraged that the Government is planning to change "runway alternation" the mode of operation that gives us a half day of peace. This is likely to be the first change implemented if Government gets its way.

"Local people have also in petitions and letters made it very clear that they oppose runway 3 and Terminal 6. Instead, they want investment in a proper rail network for travel inside the UK and to much of Continental Europe.

"More flights are nonsense when we must tackle Climate Change. A third runway is expected to generate as much CO2 in a year as the country of Kenya.

"Christmas and New Year are very busy times with both celebrations and travel. Expanding the consultation period by just two weeks is completely unrealistic for most families.

"The Government is simply making local people yet more cynical about its willingness to consult in a way that is meaningful. We still have no agreement that either the Government or BAA will come to a public meeting to hear local views. Frankly, this attitude is a disgrace."

ENDS