Plans for a third runway at Heathrow airport would make it impossible for UK to meet its climate change targets say Hastings Green Party (HGP).

It has condemned the recent government decision to give it’s backing for a third runway at Heathrow a plan announced by transport secretary Christopher Grayling on June 5th, MPs are expected to vote on the issue any day.

Ahead of the vote, HGP is calling on Hastings and Rye Labour Party to take a stand against expansion, and to put pressure on the Labour leadership to do likewise. Local Green Party members have reminded Hastings Borough Council leader Peter Chowney of his commitment last year to vote against any airport expansion at Heathrow or Gatwick if he were elected as an MP. Hastings and Rye Labour Party has not made any public statement.

Under the Climate Change Act, the UK is committed to reducing its greenhouse gas emissions by at least 80 per cent by 2050, however, a report by Campaign for Better Transport into Heathrow expansion concluded that building a third runway was incompatible with meeting this target.

Hastings Greens point out that Jeremy Corbyn recently made a statement about Heathrow expansion but failed to mention the issue of climate change.

Julia Hilton, HGP spokesperson, said this week: “Parliament will be voting any day now on whether to allow a third runway at Heathrow. The only party which can make sure this vote goes the right way is the Labour party, and we urge Hastings Labour to put pressure on the leadership to demand they vote against airport expansion.

“Expanding Heathrow would mean that the UK would not meet its climate change obligations. At a time when we are already seeing catastrophic impacts around the world from climate change, it is time for serious action rather than just words. Labour must vote against Heathrow expansion.”