Minister to be quizzed on the economic and environmental impacts of airport expansion plans
On Wednesday, the Environment Audit Committee will question the Minister for Aviation and Local Authority and planning representatives as it concludes its inquiry into the economic and environmental impacts of airport expansion.
In 2024, aviation emissions rose by almost 10% compared with the previous year. Emissions from aviation now contribute a greater share to the UK’s total than the electricity supply sector and are largely driven by demand for international leisure flights. With 5 of the 6 London airports planning expansion, this demand looks set to continue to grow.
Meeting details
MPs will first hear from Local Authority and planning sector representatives, with questions likely to explore the current planning system and how much weight is currently given to the climate change and environmental implications of expansions. The Committee may also examine the levels of consideration given to local impacts, including noise and air pollution during the planning process.
The Minister for Aviation will then be quizzed alongside representatives from the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero, and the Department for Transport, including the Director for Heathrow Expansion. Questions are likely to test the strength of the data underpinning the Government's economic growth predictions, and the robustness of its current emissions plans.