Reuters
27 September 2026
British Prime Minister Andy Burnham declined to give his backing on Sunday to plans to build a third runway at Heathrow, saying it was a matter for people who live near London's main airport.
The government led by his predecessor, former Prime Minister Keir Starmer, announced last year it supported Heathrow's expansion proposal, which must undergo a lengthy planning process before construction can begin.
"I think, principally, it's a matter for London," Burnham told the BBC in an interview at the start of the governing Labour Party's annual conference.
"I think you've got to hear the voice of people there first. It's not right for me to just jump straight in on the back of the consultation."
Burnham's refusal to immediately back the plan is the latest development in a long-running debate over a project that has divided politicians for two decades...
UK PM Burnham refuses to back Heathrow's third runway project | Reuters | 27 September 2026
