Expanding Heathrow ‘an illusion of economic growth’, says Labour donor

Sign up for the View from Westminster email for expert analysis straight to your inbox Get our free View from Westminster email Get our free View from Westminster email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Speaking in Oxford, the Chancellor said that “by backing a third runway at Heathrow we can make Britain the world’s best connected place to do business”. She added: “One of the reasons why we need to expand Heathrow is that there are emerging markets and new cities around the world that we aren’t connected to because there aren’t the slots at Heathrow – or indeed any other airport – to fly to.” open image in gallery Ecotricity founder Dale Vince has criticised the expansion of Heathrow airport But asked what he thought of the proposed new third runway at Heathrow, the energy tycoon said: “I think it’s a mistake. open image in gallery Chancellor Rachel Reeves will give a speech in Oxfordshire Asked how quickly the government could deliver its promise to grow the economy, Mr Reynolds said: “I think people will feel the difference in their pockets this year because inflation is coming down and wages are rising.” The government is battling accusations that it has spent too much time talking down Britain’s economy, with Ms Reeves’ upcoming speech expected to take a significantly more positive tone than previous messaging employed by ministers. The business secretary, who rejected claims that Labour has a “doom message”, said the economic growth plans would generate “excitement and dynamism” in the UK and unleash Britain’s “animal spirits”.