MP CALLS ON GOVERNMENT TO MEET LOCAL PEOPLE FACE TO FACE ON HEATHROW

12.40.12pm GMT Tue 18th Dec 2007

Susan Kramer MP has called for the Government to meet those affected by Heathrow expansion, and challenged ministers to attend public meeting to hear views on the plans.

Speaking in a Westminster Hall debate on Heathrow, Susan Kramer described the impact the expansion plans would have on people in the flightpath, and rejected the idea that expansion is essential for London's future prosperity.

"Quality of life is not simply a nicety, a luxury or an add-on; it is essential to the functioning of London's economy, and as we lose it, we put the future of London at risk."

"Mixed mode and half a day of peace certainly make a huge difference in my constituency. People can plan things like weddings in the afternoon, and schools can have a sports day during which their children can be outside and hear each other in the afternoon."

"I ask once more, will the Minister come, or will he direct his senior officials to come, and answer questions directly, face to face?"