§ Mr. Murphyasked the Secretary of State for Transport what is his policy in seeking alternative sources for airport expansion other than Stansted.
§ Mr. David MitchellThe main features of the Government's airports policy were set out in the statement of the then Secretary of State for Trade on 13 May 1981. —[Vol. 4, c.273–75.] Suggested alternatives to the BAA's planning application for development of Stansted airport have been considered in detail at the public inquiry which has just ended. These included proposals for a fifth terminal at Heathrow, for which a planning application has been submitted by Uttlesford district council; a new airport at Maplin, Severnside or Yardley Chase; and more extensive use of regional airports. The Government will reach their final conclusions in the light of the inspector's report and recommendations, which are not expected before early 1984.