Message from Justine Bayley

What happened last week?
The Chancellor Rachel Reeves said that the Government wants Heathrow to expand by building a Third Runway.

  •  She promised that the environmental concerns that have been three of the Labour Party’s four tests for expansion since 2017 will be met

  •  She promised that there will be no money from the government for extra ground transport links 

So, does Rachel think she has a magic wand? We’ll wait and see what actually happens but we don't believe a Third Runway will go ahead.
In the meantime, having listened to Rachel Reeves’ speech on Thursday morning, we can say:-

  •  No decision has been made because nothing can happen until Heathrow submits an application for a Development Consent Order (which first requires a public consultation). Therefore there can’t be a decision for at least two or three years

  •  Heathrow’s flag carrier, British Airways, remains sceptical with Willy Walsh saying Heathrow is not the most competent nor efficient airport

  •  Ryanair’s inimitable Michael O’Leary did not hold back: “Rachel Rubbish is wittering on about starting a consultation on the mythical dead cat known as the third runway at Heathrow. If it ever arrives, it will be about 2040, 2045 or 2050.” 

  •  Many other commentators have agreed with us in querying whether the Third Runway is either achievable or desirable.

  •  Hillingdon Council have restated their opposition to a Third Runway at Heathrow

 
What have we been doing?
I and other SHE supporters have been responding to press and media enquiries and, along with the No 3rd Runway Coalition, were out in Harmondsworth village for all of Wednesday and much of Thursday and Friday giving dozens of interviews. We’re able to bring you links to many of these, mainly thanks to the No 3rd Runway Coalition press officer. Here are a few links:

  •  BBC News Heathrow third runway: 'Most of the village would be demolished'

  •  BBC News featuring Harmondsworth residents 

  •  MailOnline We live next to Heathrow

  •  Express  'Rachel Reeves wants to bulldoze our village to save herself

  •  Maidenhead Advertiser council reaffirms opposition to Heathrow's third runway

… and if you want more to view at your leisure, we’ve also put a fuller list on our website. You could also check out:



Press Pack on Harmondsworth Green

Press Pack on Harmondsworth Green


The next steps

  •  Dozens of semi-dormant groups and websites like our own one will be springing back to life

  •  There will be lots of continuing media and public interest so SHE needs volunteers to take an active role in our campaign. One area where I know we need help is with communication – so if you can help, or would like to learn how to, then please write to us saying what you’re able to contribute

  •  John McDonnell, our local MP, will be convening a public meeting in the Heathrow Villages on 15th February when we hope a number of other local and national politicians will be present. This will be our first opportunity for everyone to gather together and plan what we should do next. John will be writing to local residents with a time and venue but if you live further afield keep an eye on our website as we’ll post details there once they’re confirmed. 

  •  Soon after the meeting we’ll issue another Newsletter so you’re kept up to date with developments.

Impromptu photo-shoot for the Times newspaper





SHE