Press Release

Berry off the radar - LONDON FIRST

11 February 2008

In response to Green Party Mayoral candidate, Sian Berry’s comment on aviation “doing our city no favours”, a spokesman from London First, the business organisation representing London’s leading employers, said:

"International connectivity is fundamental to London's current success and future growth.  Access to high quality international air travel is vital for business in the capital. To say that 'aviation is doing our city no favours' is at best an irresponsible statement - London is a leading world city and its international links have always been one of its greatest assets."

"We agree that the environmental cost of aviation should be met by airline operators and passengers alike, however to pretend that there is no value in London's airports is frankly untrue.  A leading world city requires world class airports that meet their passengers' needs and their environmental responsibilities. That is exactly what Mayoral candidates should like to see in London"