The UK government is preparing to approve expansion plans for three major airports as part of a broader strategy to boost economic growth, despite opposition from climate activists and some key members of the Cabinet.
According to reports, Chancellor Rachel Reeves is considering unveiling the move later this month in a speech outlining her plans to revive growth.
New Projects to Drive Growth
Along with airport expansions, ministers are reportedly poised to approve several high-profile infrastructure projects.
Among them is the Lower Thames Crossing, a proposed tunnel connecting Kent and Essex beneath the River Thames.
In addition, a new Universal Studios theme park in Bedfordshire is also on the table. These projects aim to stimulate the economy, which has been struggling with flatlining growth.
Pushback from Climate Advocates and Cabinet Members
However, these expansion plans are not without controversy.
Climate change campaigners and several key figures in the Cabinet, including Energy Secretary Ed Miliband, are expected to raise concerns.
Miliband and London Mayor Sadiq Khan have been vocal opponents of a third runway at Heathrow Airport, and even Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer voted against the idea back in 2018.
This makes the approval of the airport expansions a significant U-turn for Prime Minister Rishi Sunak.
Balancing Growth and Climate Goals
The government’s backing of airport expansions reflects a growing belief that economic growth must take priority over climate concerns, at least in this instance.
Ministers like Ed Miliband, who represent constituencies near airports, and backbenchers worried about noise pollution, will likely voice their opposition.
However, Chancellor Reeves has made it clear that stimulating economic growth is her primary focus, and the government appears committed to pushing ahead with the plan.
Efforts to Address Environmental Impact
To address the potential backlash, ministers are expected to argue that the environmental impact of the airport expansions will be mitigated through the introduction of the Sustainable Aviation Fuel mandate, which comes into effect this year.
This mandate requires airlines to use a minimum amount of greener jet fuel annually, aiming to reduce the environmental footprint of air travel.
A Political Strategy to Revive Reeves’ Leadership
For Chancellor Rachel Reeves, this move is seen as an attempt to get her leadership back on track after her recent budget was criticized for its impact on the pound, struggling economic growth, and rising borrowing costs.
Last week’s turmoil led to headlines branding Reeves as one of the “Two Lame Ducks” in politics, alongside former City minister Tulip Siddiq.
Government’s Commitment to Economic Growth
A government spokesperson emphasized that the expansion proposals must meet two key criteria: contributing to economic growth and aligning with existing environmental obligations.
The spokesperson reiterated that the government is determined to drive the UK economy forward, particularly within the aviation sector, which plays a crucial role in the country’s long-term future.
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