Newcastle North MP Catherine McKinnell has today welcomed the Government’s decision to follow the recommendation of the Independent Davies Commission on airport capacity as a victory for Newcastle and the North East.

Following the announcement, Catherine commented:

‘Since being elected, I have campaigned for a decision on airport capacity and I am pleased that the Government have accepted that expansion at Heathrow offers the greatest benefits for all of the country- not just the South East.

‘Heathrow is the UK’s national hub and it provides the North East with a gateway to the world, through our regular connections via Newcastle Airport. After years of dithering and delay, I welcome that the Government have now accepted the recommendation for a third runway at Heathrow.

‘This decision allows Newcastle Airport to safeguard and build on our links with Heathrow, and through it, the rest of the world. The North East is a proud exporting region which is why the decision has been welcomed by both Newcastle Airport and the wider business community, particularly as it promises to strengthen our export capacity which is vital in the wake of Brexit uncertainty.’

Catherine also pressed the Secretary of State for Transport in the Commons to ensure that work begins as soon as possible to ensure certainty for Newcastle Airport, based in her constituency, and to promote further links for the North East.

Following the Transport Secretary’s statement to Parliament, she asked:

‘As the MP representing Newcastle Airport I know that they, and the wider North East business community, welcome this decision.

‘It enables both the safeguarding and growth of our connectivity to the UK and the rest of the world.

‘However, given the time it has taken to arrive at this point, can I urge the Secretary of State to have some urgency in getting spades in the ground. When will we see the increased capacity and trading opportunities that we vitally need in the wake of Brexit uncertainty?’