SNP LODGE AMENDMENT IN HEATHROW DEBATE.

SNP LODGE AMENDMENT IN HEATHROW DEBATE.

‘HIGH SPEED RAIL BEST SOLUTION’

SNP Business and Enterprise Spokesman Mike Weir MP has lodged an amendment to the Conservative motion in today’s (Wednesday) debate on a third runway for Heathrow. His motion calls for the development of high speed rail between cities in Scotland, England and Wales.

Commenting before the debate, Mr Weir said:

“When the UK Government announced the go ahead for the third runway at Heathrow, they camouflaged it with green sounding initiatives including a vague commitment to a high speed rail link but Geoff Hoon’s statement to the Commons last week was woefully lacking in detail.

“The UK Government must stop making transport policy on the hoof and devise a coherent and considered response. Today’s debate is about one of the many symptoms of the UK’s chaotic transport network but a third runway is not the best cure.

“The SNP believe high speed rail system offer a better solution to transport problems between Scotland, England and Wales. The Spanish Government have set and excellent example – investing long term in links between all major cities.

“Until such a network is in place, priority for Heathrow landing slots should be given to flights to and from destinations not readily accessible by rail.”