§ 1. Mr. Michael McNair-Wilsonasked the Secretary of State for Trade whether the cost of a new four-lane road access and a rail link to London/Heathrow will be included in the review of the factors relating to the need for a third London airport.
§ The Under-Secretary of State for Trade (Mr. Clinton Davis)The question of surface access to airports will form part of the review, but whether and to what extent new routes may be required for Heathrow, or any other airport, and at what cost must await the outcome of the review.
§ Mr. McNair-WilsonIs the Minister aware that the M4 access to Heathrow 2 is already accepted by the Department of the Environment to be congested, if not saturated? Clearly, therefore, the road needs to be broadened, if not a new access provided. Will the Minister publish all the factors which will be included in the review for the third London airport?
§ Mr. DavisThe question of publication will be dealt with in due course and there will be full publication. We are aware of the congestion, and of course that is a factor which will be taken into account.
§ Mr. LiptonWill my hon. Friend let us know the latest position on the extension of the Piccadilly Line from Hounslow West to Heathrow, which would do much to relieve some of the traffic congestion?
§ Mr. DavisThe new underground railway link is being constructed, and the question of a surface rail link is also being considered.
§ Mr. HeseltineThe House wants to know the factors which are being taken into account in the review. Will the Minister publish them now so that people may see what information will be made available before a decision is taken on the third London airport?
§ Mr. DavisWe have already dealt with this matter a great deal. It is under general consideration, but we shall give 3 further thought to the point the hon. Member has made.