§ 5. Mr. Biggs-Davisonasked the First Secretary of State and Secretary of State for Economic Affairs whether he will consult the South-East Regional Economic Council on the economic implications for Essex of the proposed expansion of Stansted Airport.
§ Mr. M. StewartYes, Sir.
§ Mr. Biggs-DavisonIs not the Government's decision, described by Lord Plowden as a crime against regional planning, directly contrary to the policy and purposes of the right hon. Gentleman's Department?
§ Mr. StewartA number of opinions, some agreeing with that and some contrary to it, have been expressed, but the matter was very fully discussed the other day and the House took its decision.
§ Mr. KirkAs he has said that he will consult it, when does the right hon. Gentleman hope to have an answer from the Regional Economic Council, and will he publish the answer?
§ Mr. StewartIt is not a matter of just an answer to a question. I should want to consult with the Council about how to accommodate the increased population which will arise and to deal with the economic development resulting from the expansion of the airport. I expect that it will be possible, if it is desired, to keep the House informed of exchanges of opinion between the Council and myself.