Tory leader contender announces Heathrow expansion pledge if elected

Rt Hon Stephen Crabb MP - Secretary of State for Work and Pensions

Conservative leadership contender, Stephen Crabb MP, has revealed his support for an early decision in favour of a third runway at Heathrow Airport if elected.

Rt Hon Stephen Crabb MP – Secretary of State for Work and Pensions (image: stephencrabb.com)

Speaking to the Evening Standard, Work and Pensions Secretary, Stephen Crabb expressed his support for a third runway at Heathrow believing the airport would give London’s economy a vital post-Brexit boost.

Mr Crabb commented, “The truth is that if we are going to turn the challenge of Brexit into a huge opportunity for our country, then we are going to have to become far more outward facing and globally oriented.

“I’m a strong supporter of a third runway. I know that is very controversial with many people in west London, but I just really feel that this really vital project is long overdue. London is in competition with cities all around the globe. I won’t shy away from an early decision,” he said.

The Work and Pensions Secretary campaigned for Remain in the EU referendum.

74 percent of Tory members now back Heathrow expansion

Mr Crabb’s comments follow the result of a YouGov poll on 30 June suggesting 74 percent of Conservative Party members across the UK now back Heathrow expansion after Brexit vote.

Responding to the polling results, Heathrow’s Chief Executive John Holland Kaye said, “Conservative members, cross party MPs and voters do not want to pull up the drawbridge on the rest of the world.  Now, more than ever Heathrow expansion is needed and I am delighted we are supported overwhelmingly by the Conservative Party grass roots.”

“This poll shows the Tory grassroots see expanded Heathrow as a keystone policy to give the whole of the UK the infrastructure and opportunities to compete outside of the EU. The next Conservative Prime Minster will have a mandate from the party membership to make the right choice for jobs and security, in the national interest and expand Heathrow.”

“I am confident all candidates will listen to the voice of the grassroots and Heathrow stands ready to work with the next Government to help build a future that keeps Britain optimistic and open to the world.”