7 February 2008 - The Government’s support for the expansion of Heathrow airport demonstrates a complete contempt for the health of the environment and for local democracy, a South East MEP will say at a high profile public meeting in Slough tomorrow.

Green MEP for the South East Caroline Lucas will tell a gathering of residents that the Transport Secretary’s proposals for Heathrow expansion would condemn the region to an unsustainable future of significantly higher noise and air pollution.

The meeting, organised by residents, will give local people and campaigners a valuable opportunity to voice their concerns over the Government’s plans for Heathrow, and to hear expert speakers give their views on why a third runway would have disastrous consequences for the South East.

Caroline Lucas said: “Any government which, on the one hand pledges to make a significant reduction in greenhouse gases by 2020, and in the next breath gives the green light to the greatest expansion of aviation in a generation is guilty of either the most shameless hypocrisy, or the most unforgiveable ignorance and stupidity.

“Despite the promises which were made by previous Labour governments to limit further expansion, this Government has persisted in a deceptive campaign for a third runway which its own figures estimate will result in a record total number of 702,000 flights using Heathrow every year. This will almost double the number of flights recorded last year if both a third runway and the end of runway alternation are agreed.  

“That translates into nearly 500 extra flights a day, and more noise and more emissions. The figures are by now well known: a third runway would require the demolition of over 750 houses – perhaps significantly more - including the entire village of Sipson. More than 3000 people would lose their homes. Schools, pubs and churches would all be demolished.

“Whichever way you look at these proposals, they are a social and environmental nightmare. It is crucial for the campaign against expansion that concerned residents in Slough respond vocally to the Government’s consultation, and come to the public meeting to discuss how to further develop the campaign.”

Dr Lucas will be joined by fellow campaigner and chair of Heathrow Association for the Control of Aircraft Noise (HACAN) John Stewart, as well as a number of other speakers.

Meeting Details

Third Runway at Heathrow: Do You Want It?

When:     7.30pm, Friday 8 February 2008

Where:    Salvation Army Centre, Stoke Road, Slough                                          

For more information, please call 01753 543805

 
ENDS