RACHEL Reeves previously fought an airport expansion in her own patch – even though she is about to overrule Ed Miliband by expanding Heathrow.
In 2020, objections were made by the Chancellor regarding the proposed £150 million new terminal at Leeds Bradford Airport, citing concerns about the potential increase in air and noise pollution.
The Leeds MP said it would: “Undermine vital efforts to ensure that Leeds upholds its commitment to become a carbon neutral city by 2030.”
But the Tories accused her of telling the public “do as I say not as I do”.
Since becoming Chancellor she has made it her mission to stop Nimbys blocking major projects in a bid to grow the economy.
And is expected to approve a third runway at Heathrow despite objections from Net Zero Secretary Miliband.
Kevin Hollinrake, Shadow Levelling Up Secretary, said: “This is a classic case of do as I say not as I do from Rachel Reeves.
The Chancellor was criticized for her stance, with comments suggesting hypocrisy in advocating for growth while also opposing developments in her own constituency, being labeled as a NIMBY (Not In My Backyard) with a hindering rather than constructive attitude.
A spokesperson from the Treasury responded to the Chancellor’s objections by highlighting the government’s approach of assessing each case based on its individual merits. The spokesperson also mentioned that the government had previously approved expansion plans for two other airports, Stansted and City Airport.
