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PM branded 'gutless' after delaying Heathrow decision

David Cameron has been accused of being "gutless" after a final decision on a third runway at Heathrow was delayed until at least next summer.

The government said yesterday that it had postponed the decision until a more detailed analysis on the environmental impact of expansion could take place.

While environmental groups and local campaigners welcomed the announcement, business leaders reacted with fury.

ITV News Business Editor Joel Hills said Gatwick - which has "less of a pollution problem and fewer local residents to upset" - "is back in the race".

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Heathrow chief: We can meet environmental challenge

The chief executive of Heathrow Airport has vowed to continue pushing for a controversial third runway - saying he was "confident" they would meet the government's "tough environmental standards".

John Holland-Kaye, Heathrow Airport chief executive Credit: Reuters

After government ministers delayed a decision giving the runway the green light, Heathrow Airport chief executive John Holland-Kaye said their plan would bring the most economic benefits for the UK.

Our new plan will connect the whole nation to global growth while providing opportunities for the local community and making Heathrow the most environmentally responsible hub airport in the world. I am confident we can meet tough environmental standards.

We have support locally and nationally from politicians, business, trade unions and the aviation industry for Heathrow expansion. Let’s get on and build a better future for Britain.

– John Holland-Kaye, Heathrow Airport chief executive
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PM branded 'gutless' after delaying Heathrow decision

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