The Times reports that the chancellor has been persuaded by Sir Howard Davies’ report which stated the economic benefits of Heathrow expansion would be about £147 billion, compared to £89 billion at Gatwick.
However, one “ally” of Osborne told the paper: “George doesn’t have a settled view on this. He just wants to see a runway built somewhere as soon as possible once all the proper processes are concluded.”
Following the release of the report, officials at the Department of Transport are taking fresh evidence from both airports as to where a new runway would be best built.
The findings will then be discussed by a 10-strong cabinet sub committee chaired by David Cameron before the issue is referred to the full cabinet.
Could this mean a decision will finally be taken?
