End runway delays

AS the Cabinet finally gives the all-clear to a third runway at Heathrow, are we at last nearing an end of the longest chapter of political cowardice in British history? Or will blinkered MPs send the proposal back to the drawing board yet again?

This paper accepts that opinion remains bitterly divided over whether or not the scheme endorsed yesterday is the best of the many choices put forward since 1968, when Sir Harold Wilson set up a commission to examine options for expanding airport capacity in the South-East of England.

But one thing can be said with absolute certainty: after 50 years of delays and indecision, any further dithering will pose a hugely serious threat to the United Kingdom’s economic future, as dealmakers take their business elsewhere.

Indeed, as we stand on the threshold of Brexit, with Heathrow at full stretch and Gatwick also nearing capacity, it has never been more vital to establish an international transport hub fit for the 21st century.

To her credit, Theresa May has grasped this fact of economic life as have both sides of the political divide here in Scotland, where Tories and SNP have welcomed the decision.

It is now up to MPs, on both sides of the House, to support the PM.

Yes, some will face furious protests from constituents – despite the lavish compensation and environmental protection measures on offer to those who will be affected.

But there are occasions when MPs need to lift their eyes above thoughts of their own re-election to the interests of the country as a whole.

Indeed, it is a sobering thought that even if all goes smoothly, the new Heathrow runway will not be open for business until 2026 – by which time, China will have built more than 50 airports.