John Healey Backs Heathrow Third Runway for Economic Growth
Chancellor John Healey argues for a third runway at Heathrow Airport, though Prime Minister Andy Burnham remains unconvinced by the project's benefits.
Chancellor of the Exchequer John Healey stated that there is a pro-growth case for constructing a third runway at Heathrow Airport. Speaking from Bangkok during the IMF annual meetings, Healey argued that airports across the United Kingdom have been a significant driver of jobs and growth in recent decades.
Healey's position contrasts with that of Prime Minister Andy Burnham, who has avoided endorsing the £33bn megaproject. Burnham has suggested the decision should rest with London residents and has reportedly told Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander that he remains unconvinced by the arguments for the expansion. This shift follows previous advocacy from former Chancellor Rachel Reeves, who viewed the project as essential to establishing Britain as a global business hub.
Heathrow CEO Thomas Woldbye warned that the lack of prime ministerial support could lead investors, including sovereign wealth funds from Singapore, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar, to reassess their backing. The government is currently reviewing responses from a public consultation, and airport owners are expected to decide whether to seek formal planning permission in the coming months.
