A resident rally attracted hundreds to show support for building a new runway at Heathrow.
The event took place on July 2nd, exactly one year on from when the Airports Commission recommended Heathrow expansion.
Organised by campaign group Back Heathrow, the event was held near the airport. Local people and their families called for the government and the UK’s next Prime Minster to back Heathrow expansion following the Brexit vote.
Speakers at the rally included John Holland-Kaye, Chief Executive of Heathrow Airport, residents and Unite the union.
Gareth Thomas, MP for Harrow West said: “Given the current economic uncertainty and lack of a clear plan from the government, a decision to expand Heathrow would send a strong message that Britain is open for business. It would be madness to turn our backs on thousands of jobs and apprenticeships at this vital time for our country, a view clearly shared by many residents living near Heathrow”.
Joe McGowan, Lead Aviation Officer for Unite the Union, said: “The benefits of expansion at Heathrow will be felt in every corner of the country. A new runway will deliver massive investment in skills, training and jobs, providing a huge boost to local communities which is a key reason why Unite is backing Heathrow to grow.”
Rob Gray, Back Heathrow Campaign Director, said: “More residents living near Heathrow support rather than oppose expansion. This rally is powerful, living proof that the next Prime Minister can give a new runway the green light, secure in the knowledge that the decision will be welcomed by the majority in local communities and around the UK. It’s time to back Heathrow.”
