Thousands of descend on Westminster to "Just Say No"
Thousands of environmental campaigners, politicians and residents packed out a rally in Westminster yesterday evening (Monday 25th February) to “Just Say No” to the expansion of Heathrow airport.
The Government consultation, which ends tomorrow, Wednesday 27th February, includes plans for a third runway at the west London airport, a possible sixth terminal and greater use of the existing two runways.
According to reports on the forum from Chiswick residents who attended the rally, more than 3,000 anti-expansion campaigners filled the hall.
Speakers included Lib Dem Leader Nick Clegg, Hounslow Council’s Barbara Reid and representatives from HACAN Clear Skies, Greenpeace, Plane Stupid, MEP's and GLA Mayoral candidates amongst others.
“It’s a big battle to win, but I left the meeting reassured of the collective commitment of those present to change this Governments mind,” said one resident.
“It was a good rousing affair and mainly peopled by the over 40’s, together with pockets of Greenpeace and Friends of the Earth and Plane Stupid activists. There were about 10-20 MPs, MEPs in the audience and speaking and videos sent by Ken and Boris all supporting the cause. I saw Anne and Alan Keen, who stayed for the first hour.”
He added “The most rousing cheers went up for comments that accused the government of colluding with and being in the pocket of the airline industry, and a belief that democracy at the centre of government was a sham.”
Chiswick resident and film maker Rebecca Frayn made the 60 second documentary that was shown at the rally. Funded by campaigning group EnoughsEnough, the film was shot at a primary school in Hounslow. The film can be viewed at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PPwbxEQmoyc
February 26, 2008