Airports

Political Parties need to ‘think aviation’ in May elections, says Back Heathrow

With the May local council elections looming, Back Heathrow, the local voice for over 100,000 residents who support the aviation industry in west London, is urging political parties to put forward council candidates with experience of aviation and its supply chain.

Parmjit Dhanda, executive director of Back Heathrow said: “London’s jobs and economy depends on its airports to survive, particularly Heathrow.

“But over the last two years the government has failed to understand the impact that a lack of business rate rebate and a byzantine Covid testing system has had on the economy.

“The capital can only benefit from having councillors who have worked in the aviation industry and fully understand its importance to London’s economy.

“We want all parties to ‘think aviation’ when putting forward their candidates for the May elections.”

Back Heathrow believes the elections are a chance for parties to respond to a world changed by the impact of Covid on London boroughs now facing economic hardship.

For example, during the crisis Hounslow had over 30,000 residents on furlough and Hayes & Harlington in Hillingdon had a 200% increase in unemployment.

Mr Dhanda added: “The economic hardships faced by so many Londoners are largely due to the downturn in aviation.

“There are political solutions to this, but the long-awaited rescue plan for aviation never seemed to happen.

“Perhaps local councils can help change that in May.”

Share
.