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Conservatives pledge support for a third runway at Heathrow Airport
Overview
The Conservative Party has pledged to support the construction of a third runway at Heathrow Airport, with Shadow Chancellor Andrew Griffith stating that a future Conservative government would legislate to end delays and boost capacity. The announcement contrasts with Prime Minister Andy Burnham's more cautious approach and has drawn mixed reactions from potential Conservative candidates for the next mayor of London.
Key points
- Shadow Chancellor Andrew Griffith announced the Conservative Party's backing for a third runway at Heathrow during his conference speech.
- Griffith stated that a future Conservative government would take action to end delays and legislate to sweep away blockers.
- Potential Conservative mayoral candidates James Cleverly and Andrew Boff expressed skepticism and criticism regarding the expansion plans.
- Other potential mayoral candidates, Alex Challoner and Festus Akinbusoye, expressed support for the runway project.
- Prime Minister Andy Burnham has taken a more cautious, open-minded approach, noting the issue is principally a matter for Londoners.