Lib Dems could back new runway at Gatwick Airport

The Liberal Democrats could become the first major political party to back a new runway at Gatwick Airport.

The party’s annual conference in Glasgow is today expected to reject further expansion at Heathrow but keep open the option of a second runway at Gatwick.

The decision would mark a U-turn by the Lib Dems who previously opposed all airport expansion on environmental grounds.

The move could see a revolt by party activists but leader and Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg has suggested the green arguments can be squared by the development of cleaner, quieter, planes.

Nick Clegg has suggested the green arguments can be squared by the development of cleaner, quieter, planes. Credit: PA

Business Secretary Vince Cable, whose Twickenham constituency is close to the Heathrow flightpath, believes expanding Gatwick is preferable.

Climate Change Secretary Ed Davey, MP for Kingston & Surbiton, is also supporting the change to Lib Dem Policy.

Climate Change Secretary Ed Davey, MP for Kingston & Surbiton, is supporting the new runway. Credit: PA

The government’s airports commission is due to choose between Heathrow and Gatwick next Summer, following the general election.