HL Deb 10 September 2003 vol 652 cc131-2WA
Lord Stoddart of Swindon

asked Her Majesty's Government:

What assessment they have made of the health implications of constructing a third runway at Heathrow. [HL4290]

Lord Davies of Oldham

All of the runway options consulted on, including a possible third runway at Heathrow, have been assessed across a wide range of impacts, including in particular noise and local air quality, in accordance with the appraisal framework previously agreed and published. The details were set out in the consultation documents and supporting papers. Wider health implications of airport development are also being taken into account. consistent with Department of Health guidelines for health impact assessment.

Lord Stoddart of Swindon

asked Her Majesty's Government:

How they plan to complete an assessment of how European Union limits on nitrogen dioxide will be achieved in the event that the proposal for a third runway at Heathrow Airport is approved before the publication of the aviation White Paper. [HL4292]

Lord Davies of Oldham

The EU limit values for nitrogen dioxide are not source specific: aviation is one of several sources that has to be considered for compliance purposes. The Government have undertaken an assessment of air quality impacts associated with Heathrow options in the consultation documentThe Future Development of Air Transport in the United Kingdom: South East. That document states "Another runway at Heathrow could not be considered unless the Government could be confident that levels of all relevant pollutants could be consistently contained within EU limits". Subsequent consideration of options and consultation response evidence for Heathrow and other airports is being undertaken in full knowledge of the UK environmental commitments.

Lord Stoddart of Swindon

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether they plan to complete an assessment on how to reduce traffic congestion around Heathrow Airport, if the proposal for a third runway is approved before the publication of the aviation White Paper. [HL4293]

Lord Davies of Oldham

For all the development options inThe Future Development of Air Transport in the United Kingdom: South East consultation, the impacts on the strategic road and rail networks were appraised. The consultation indicated, for each option, where enhancements to the networks might be needed to cater for the increased number of passengers and employees accessing the airports. We are considering responses to the consultation.

For any option which is supported by Government in the air transport White Paper, it will be for the developer to submit a full and detailed planning application supported by a robust surface access strategy.