Members of London First, an influential group of businesses that seek to make London the best city in the world for commerce, have come out resoundingly in favour of Heathrow expansion.
A survey asked ‘Which of the sites would your business favour as a location for another runway in the South East?’. 59% responded in support of Heathrow, more than double those who chose Gatwick (25%).
The result is further evidence that the expansion of Heathrow has the backing of British business. Expanding Heathrow, Britain’s hub airport, is the only way to connect the whole country to global growth. The Airports Commission’s analysis clearly shows that it will deliver the greatest benefits for Britain, generating up to £211bn in economic growth and up to 180,000 jobs across the country. That’s why Heathrow’s plans are also already backed by five regional airports, 32 Chambers of Commerce across the country and influential British airlines such as easyJet and Virgin Atlantic.
John Holland-Kaye, Chief Executive of Heathrow Airport said:
“London is a world city that has been at the centre of global commerce for centuries. To maintain our competitive advantage we need to expand Heathrow and connect not just London, but the whole country, to the globe’s fastest growing markets. That’s why we have huge and growing support from businesses, business groups, unions, airports and politicians across the country.
“This issue is urgent and we agree that Government needs to act swiftly after the election. The answer is clearly Heathrow. Let’s get on with it.”
89% of respondents called on Government to make a swift decision on the Airports Commission recommendation.
Notes to editors:
London First members survey on airports expansion:
Question One: ‘Should expanding airport capacity in the South East be a critical priority for the next government?’
Yes: 95%.
No: 5%.
Don’t know: 0%.
Question Two: ‘Which of the sites shortlisted would your business favour as a location for another runway in the South East?’
Heathrow: 59%
Gatwick: 25%
Don’t know: 10%.
Neither: 6%
Question Three: ‘Do you think politicians should take swift action to act on the Commission’s final recommendation, whichever airport they have chosen for expansion and irrespective of your previous choice?’
Yes: 89%
No: 9%
Don’t know: 2%.
About London First:
http://londonfirst.co.uk/about/
