STANSTED AIRPORT DEBATE

Reading Gareth's BLOG today. Pinched this photo. He says he would like to run a pro-Stansted campaign. I have thought this for a long time too. So here goes - I'll do it if he doesn't. If he does, then he'll probably do it better than me so I'll drop mine. Can't stand all the hypocrites who complain about the expansion of these facilities yet still use them (a famous young chef is a prime example). I am going to contact Stansted PR bod and get their side of the story. And, whilst I'm at it, Uttlesford District Council never asked me if it was OK for them to use money from my council tax to fight expansion - so much for democracy - suppose I could vote against the Councillors next time there's an election - but voting only encourages them. Willing to bet that if a full poll were taken of every resident in the UDCs area as to whether their money should be spent opposing, then we would find that the still anti's are in a minority. Come on UDC - make sure you are acting on behalf of the majority (or are you worried that you aren't?)

Regional business groups have backed Stansted Airport's bid to expand, saying it is essential for the continued economic prosperity of the region. The Confederation of British Industry (CBI) welcomed the Government's Aviation White Paper update, which reaffirmed its support for a second runway and maximising the use of the first runway at Stansted. The local branch of the Institute of Directors (IoD) also expressed its disappointment at Uttlesford District Council's decision to turn down the airport's application for expansion on the existing runway.

Richard Tunnicliffe, CBI regional director for the East of England, said: 'Improved air cargo and passenger facilities are vital to keep the UK competitive internationally. The Government's plans for expansion could boost the economy by £13bn a year and as the Stearn Review made clear, economic growth and environmental sustainability are not mutually exclusive, as long as we deal effectively with carbon emissions.'

Jerry Golland, chairman of the East of England IoD, said: 'The application, to increase flights on Stansted's existing runway from the current cap of 25m passengers to approximately 35m, is hugely important for business and especially important to the many companies that rely on effective air-transport links.'

'Four million business passengers already use Stansted and with the airport operating at 23.5m passengers, extra capacity is needed quickly to ensure that the East of England and UK plc maintain their competitive edge in the global economy.'

'Limiting growth at Stansted will harm tourism, cut inward investment and damage the region's economy. We hope BAA is successful in its appeal against this decision.'