London: Working people and businesses across Britain will benefit from a government going "further and faster" to kickstart economic growth, as Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves announced the government's support for a third runway at Heathrow. According to Kuwait News Agency, speaking to an audience of business chiefs at Siemens in North Oxfordshire on Wednesday morning, Reeves set out the government's latest set of reforms to stimulate economic growth and enhance living standards across the UK. The plan includes driving investment, encouraging construction, and addressing regulatory barriers, with a significant highlight being the announcement of government backing for the expansion of Heathrow Airport. The Chancellor confirmed that the government will swiftly review the Airports National Policy Statement (ANPS). This statement is crucial as it forms the foundation for decision-making regarding development consent for a new runway at Heathrow, ensuring the project aligns with the UK's legal, envir onmental, and climate responsibilities. In her address, Reeves emphasized the potential benefits of a third runway at Heathrow, stating it would foster growth, attract investments, boost exports, and enhance the UK's connectivity as part of their Plan for Change. She expressed confidence that recent economic reforms, including expedited planning processes and modernized airspace plans, have positioned the project for successful implementation. Reeves announced, "I can confirm today that this Government supports a third runway at Heathrow and is inviting proposals to be brought forward by the summer." The expansion is expected to create over 100,000 jobs locally, with more indirect employment opportunities arising nationwide. Research by Frontier Economics indicates that 60 percent of the economic benefits from the new runway would extend beyond London and the South East, offering financial advantages to working people throughout the UK through reduced fares and increased passenger options. In 2024, Heathro w's management reiterated that constructing a third runway remains integral to the airport's strategy to accommodate rising passenger numbers. Last year, Heathrow set a new record with 83.9 million passengers, surpassing its previous high in 2019, and it is projected to serve 84.2 million passengers this year, maintaining its status as one of the world's busiest air transport hubs.
