SNP Government dodges question of its backing for Heathrow third runway

Responding to the publication of the Scottish Government’s Aviation Statement and Key Priorities, Scottish Liberal Democrat economy spokesperson Willie Rennie MSP commented:

“This strategy completely dodges the SNP Government’s longstanding contract with Heathrow to support the building of a third runway.

“It is irresponsible for SNP ministers to endorse an expansion that would produce more emissions than some small countries. Declaring a climate emergency will ring hollow for as long as the SNP help pave the way for more flights from an airport that is already the UK’s biggest polluter.

“With rumours that there will be a fresh push for expansion, John Swinney needs to show leadership and rip up his government’s contract of support for the sake of the climate and avoiding centralising more of the UK economy in the South East.”