AIRPORT CAPACITY

That this House notes that a decision will soon be taken in principle by the Government on airport capacity in the South East of England, initiating a lengthy planning process for a new runway at either Gatwick or Heathrow Airport; further notes that the implications of this decision in terms of public finance, noise pollution, air pollution, surface transport congestion, regional connectivity and competition in the aviation sector are immense; welcomes the fact that the CEO of Gatwick has accepted a request by hon. Members, broadcasters and newspapers to debate directly with the CEO of Heathrow to allow hon. Members to be properly informed of the facts before forming a view; and is disappointed that the CEO of Heathrow has declined the same request, and strongly urges him to reconsider.