HC Deb 17 December 2002 vol 396 c696W
21. Mr. Francois

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what plans he has to consult residents in southern Essex in relation to the proposals to build a new airport at Cliffe. [85921]

Mr. Jamieson

My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Transport announced to Parliament on 28 November 2002 that the consultation on airports capacity will be extended until we have consulted on proposals in respect of Gatwick. My right hon. Friend made it absolutely clear to the House that it is open for anyone in the country to respond to the consultation.

Those who have already responded to the consultation will be able to amend, add to, or replace their response having considered the new document. We will set out our plans for the remaining stage of the consultation process, including how to inform respondents, when we publish the further consultation paper in the new year.

Bob Spink

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, pursuant to his answer of 9 December 2002 (ref 86522) if he will explain his plans for the consultation process in the new year to the public meeting on Canvey Island. [87286]

Mr. Jamieson

[holding answer 16 December 2002]: As I set out in my previous answer to the hon. Member on 9 December 2002, Official Report, columns 29–30W, we will set out our plans for the remaining stage of the consultation process when we publish the further consultation in the new year.