Ken Livingstone against Heathrow expansion
19.02.08
Ken Livingstone, London's mayor, came out against plans to build a third runway at Heathrow Airport yesterday, saying it should be scrapped for environmental reasons. Mr Livingstone, who is running for re-election in May, said he opposed expansion at Heathrow and elsewhere in southeast England to protect 'generations who will come after us.'
On a visit to a village near Heathrow that is threatened with demolition if a third runway is approved, he said: 'Rather than more runways and plane journeys, we must cut carbon emissions by using energy more efficiently.' Meeting with various lobbying groups, Mr Livingstone reaffirmed his opposition to the proposals to expand Heathrow.
He said expansion stood at odds with government figures showing air travel was more harmful than other transport. It would also lead to increased traffic congestion, noise and air pollution and affect the quality of life and health for millions of Londoners, he added.
Mr Livingstone said: 'Rather than more runways and plane journeys, we must cut carbon emissions by using energy more efficiently. The Government's own figures show air travel produces two to three times more carbon emissions than making the same trip by rail.'
'On every test the argument for expanding Heathrow has not been made and I don't believe it ever can. We have a duty to protect our environment not just for us, but the generations who will come after us.'
'It is vital that all airport expansion in London and the south-east, including Heathrow, is halted now as it is completely contrary to the growing evidence on the role of aviation in contributing towards catastrophic climate change.'
Supporters of Heathrow's expansion, include airlines and business, argue that it is vital to sustain London's status as a world financial centre - or risk being left behind. Environmental group Greenpeace said a survey of 1,500 people in the area suggested that 90% opposed expansion because of its likely effect on their homes and livelihood.
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