Green groups are raising concerns over a Heathrow campaigner’s role in Labour’s policy-making.
London: Green groups are upset about a Heathrow campaigner’s role in Labour’s policy. They worry this could influence decisions on airport expansion.
Parmjit Dhanda leads the pro-Heathrow group Back Heathrow. He also serves on Labour’s National Policy Forum, which shapes party policies.
He’s involved in a commission focused on economic growth, advising Chancellor Rachel Reeves. This has raised eyebrows among environmentalists.
Ami McCarthy from Greenpeace expressed concerns. She thinks the Chancellor might be getting advice from Heathrow lobbyists.
McCarthy believes the Chancellor should focus on green industries instead of polluting projects. She argues this would create jobs and lower energy costs.
Mike Childs from Friends of the Earth echoed these sentiments. He stressed the importance of listening to climate experts before making decisions.
Dhanda, a former Labour minister, defended his position. He said he was elected to the forum for his experience, not appointed by anyone.
He insisted he’s not trying to sway the Chancellor or anyone else. He believes diverse backgrounds are essential for effective policy-making.
Speculation is growing that Reeves will support Heathrow’s third runway in an upcoming speech. However, the airport hasn’t submitted a full planning application yet.
While Reeves hasn’t confirmed anything, she has stated that growth is a top priority for the UK. She’s open to backing infrastructure projects, even if they’re unpopular.
A Labour source clarified that the National Policy Forum includes about 200 elected representatives. They emphasized that the economic growth commission is a party initiative, not linked to the Treasury.
Heathrow aims to build a third runway to increase flights and enhance trade. They argue this expansion is crucial for the UK’s competitiveness.
Despite receiving parliamentary approval in 2018, plans have faced delays due to legal challenges and the pandemic.
Back Heathrow claims to represent residents and businesses that rely on the airport. They recently joined over 100 businesses advocating for the expansion.
They believe expansion can happen responsibly, meeting strict environmental standards. They argue growth and environmental protection can coexist.
However, supporting Heathrow could create tension within the government. Energy Secretary Ed Miliband is against the third runway and has voiced his concerns.
Miliband stated he won’t resign if the government backs the expansion. He warned that the project must meet the UK’s emissions targets to proceed.
