MPs And Campaigners Remind Cameron Of His Runway Pledge

A group of MPs and campaigners against Heathrow expansion went to No 10 Downing Street on Tuesday, 3rd February to deliver a reminder to the Prime Minister.  Shortly before the 2010 election, Conservative leader David Cameron had pledged, “no ifs, no buts; there will be no third runway.”

The Labour Party were in government at the time and looked set to push ahead with a third runway at Heathrow if they got into power again.

With a third runway back on the agenda in 2012, anti-expansion campaigners and MPs from all parties felt that it was time to remind Mr Cameron of his promise and the reasons why expansion is still a bad idea.

Although a large group of campaigners and residents travelled to Central London to protest, only a small group were allowed through security and into Downing Street and up to the famous shiny black door.   Representatives had to give their details in advance and pass security checks.

Members of the group included:

Conservative MPs –  Zac Goldsmith MP (Richmond Park and North Kingston); Angie Bray MP (Ealing Central and Acton);

Mary Macleod MP (Brentford and Isleworth); John Randall MP (Uxbridge and South Ruislip);  Adam Afriye MP (Windsor);

Caroline Lucas MP (Green Party MP for Brighton Pavilion)

Labour MPs Kate Hoey MP (Vauxhall); John McDonnell (Hayes and Harlington); Andy Slaughter MP (Hammersmith);

Baroness Jenny Tonge (Lib Dem).

Campaigners:  John Stewart, Chairman of HACAN;  Neil Keveren, Chair of SHE;  Natasha Fletcher (Teddington Action Group); Charles Burke (Colnbrook Community Association)

John Stewart said, “We are deliberately targeting Downing Street because the decision about a new runway will be a political one.  The politicians can override whatever recommendations the Airports Commission will come up with in the summer.  This event once again demonstrates the cross-party nature of the opposition to a 3rd runway. It also shows the geographical spread of the current problems caused by Heathrow, which can only get worse of a new runway is built. Representatives of groups from as far apart as Brockley and Teddington will be going into Downing Street.”