Airport campaigners discuss tactics

Local residents, MPs and pressure groups, including green protesters from the Camp for Climate Action, were among those attending the event at Harlington, west London.

Among topics discussed was the possibility of "mass direct action" in protest if expansion plans are approved.

The various groups held the meeting to explore their possible next step should the Government agree to expansion in a decision expected before the end of the year.

Plans include a third runway, more use of existing runways and, possibly, a sixth terminal.

Among speakers to address the conference were Labour MP for Hayes & Harlington John McDonnell, Liberal Democrat MP for Richmond Park Susan Kramer and Baroness Jenny Tonge.

John Stewart, chairman of Heathrow anti-expansion group Hacan, said if the Government agrees to expansion they are looking at tactics ranging from mass letter-writing and producing more reports through to direct action.

He said: "The significant thing is that we have had MPs sharing the same platform as local campaigners, Greenpeace and Plane Stupid.

"It shows that there is unity among a whole diverse range of people on this matter and the possibility for a whole diverse range of tactics.

"This conference will be a visible sign to the Government that its many opponents are working closely together. What unites us is an utter determination to win this battle."