§ Mr. John TaylorTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport if he will withdraw the option for a second runway at Birmingham Airport. [77098]
§ Mr. JamiesonThe Government intend to publish an air transport White Paper next year which will set a policy framework for aviation and airports in the UK over the next 30 years. In support of this White Paper we are consulting on a range of options, including the development of a second runway at Birmingham. We are inviting views on the arguments for and against providing different amounts of new airport capacity at different locations, including several options in the Midlands.
It is our aim to ensure that any development is sustainable and achieves a balance between economic, social and environmental considerations. All responses received will be considered carefully before taking any final decisions on the policies for the White Paper.
§ Mr. John TaylorTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport what assessment he has made of(a) the viability of and (b) the need for lengthening the existing runway at Birmingham Airport. [77099]
§ Mr. JamiesonOur background studies identified airport capacity constraints in the Midlands before 2030. Therefore, we have considered options for development at Birmingham International Airport, on which we are currently consulting.