Scottish Government support for Heathrow expansion cannot continue in Climate Emergency

Reacting to the news that the Scottish Government has reaffirmed its commitment to a third runway being built at Heathrow, despite the climate impacts, Friends of the Earth Scotland Director Dr Richard Dixon commented,

“It beggars belief that the Scottish Government have not even considered withdrawing from their backroom deal with Heathrow Airport. The High Court ruled in February 2020 that the UK government’s decision to expand Heathrow was illegal on climate grounds. “

“The Scottish Government cannot continue to support this climate-wrecking project which is opposed by those residents living nearby as well anyone who is serious about bringing down emissions in line with climate science.”

“There were hopeful signs when SNP MPs abstained on the Westminster vote on a third runway, and the First Minister committed to looking at the third runway through a “lens of climate change”. But clearly, despite their fine words on climate change and the legal ruling, the Scottish Government have reverted to their previous unquestioning support for Heathrow expansion.”

“Coronavirus has decimated the international air travel market so it is pure folly to believe that this project will ever get off the ground. We should instead be investing our time and resources into a green recovery that prioritises public transport and bringing down climate emissions from the most polluting sector of transport.”
ENDS