First Minister welcomes plans to expand Heathrow

26 Oct 2016 01:38 PM

First Minister of Wales Carwyn Jones has welcomeed plans to expand Heathrow.

First Minister of Wales Carwyn Jones yesterday said: “I welcome this long-awaited announcement, which will benefit Welsh passengers, bring tourists to Wales, help our exporters reach new markets and create new jobs."

He added:

“It is crucial the people of Wales share the benefits of this major national infrastructure project. I fully expect a fair allocation of landing slots at the expanded airport and urge the UK Government to deliver the Western Rail Link to Heathrow by the 2024. The new link, alongside the electrification of the rail line to Swansea and modernisation of the north Wales mainline and Cardiff Central station, will ensure the people and economy of Wales benefit fully from the expansion of Heathrow.

“We will also work to ensure that Wales receives the consequentials to which it is entitled to under the Barnett formula. Although today’s announcement is welcome, we continue to press for Air Passenger Duty (APD) to be devolved to Wales.”