New runway at Gatwick Airport would boost confidence, Sadiq tells Theresa May

Sadiq Khan today made a last-ditch attempt to persuade the Government to back a new runway at Gatwick rather than Heathrow.

The Mayor wrote to Theresa May to argue that expanding the south London airport would boost aviation capacity and economic growth while keeping air quality safe and within legal limits.

His letter to the Prime Minister — signed by 30 cross-party London MPs, council leaders and Assembly members — said the decision would show the rest of the world that Britain was still “open for business” after the Brexit vote.

He also claimed that, unlike Heathrow, Gatwick expansion would not require a public subsidy which was a “huge factor” in uncertain economic times.

“We can finally get moving, unleash the potential for economic growth and send a positive signal to the world that London — and Britain — is open,” he said.

“Following the EU referendum, it’s more important than ever that we demonstrate we’re open for business and that we can make the most of crucial investment opportunities.”

Ministers are meeting shortly to discuss where to provide extra capacity needed in the South-East and a decision is expected to be taken imminently.