Environmental groups are warning that expanding Heathrow would be a disaster.

It’s reported the Chancellor will use a speech on growth next week to support a third runway at the airport.

Friends of the Earth says endorsing the development would be a “catastrophic misstep” for a Government which claims to be a climate leader.

Responding to reports that the chancellor will back an expansion at Heathrow and other airports, Andy Prendergast, GMB National Secretary, said:

“Reports that the third runway at Heathrow may shortly get the green light is a long overdue decision.

“Expanded capacity at the airport is crucial for our country’s prosperity and has been put off for far too long.

“The extra runway is crucial to create thousands of good, union jobs. The sooner the project is progressed, the better.”