Letter to Shadow Transport Secretary Theresa Villiers

Dear Theresa Villiers,

I've heard you and David Cameron recently make some pretty strong statements opposing Heathrow expansion. I think this is fantastic.

The government is completely isolated on this issue. Not only are the plans deeply unpopular with the public and within the Labour Party, but a 3rd runway at Heathrow is completely unnecessary. If we are truly serious about reducing carbon emissions, then how in our right minds can we push for an expansion of a extremely powerful source of carbon emissions? This simply contradicts the governments projections for carbon emission reductions.

I prefer your plan for a high-speed rail network across the country, such as the incredible network Japan has to offer with their Shinkansen trains running at extremely high speeds and hence makes commuting a speedy pleasure. Considering that it is much more convenient and greener than air travel - this alternative makes much more sense than a extension of Heathrow, which itself would cost millions of taxpayers pounds. Our money should be put to good use. And it's in all of our interests to put it towards a energy efficient use, and not a prolongation of the pollution of our environment. Sustainability is the future, we all know this. The United Kingdom must show the example for the rest of the world.

Some countries are already making such great advances on this front. As of January 1st, no sulphur is allowed in petrol and diesel sold in the Netherlands. This year Israel will begin fitting itself out in earnest with a network of vehicle-charging points and battery-exchange stations that will eliminate the need for back-up generators and allow it, if the demand is there, to become the most electro-motivated country in the world. Abu Dhabi will be the host of Masdar City, designed by Foster + Partners. It will be entirely run on renewable energy sources and with a zero-carbon and zero-waste design. And Foster + Partners is a British company! Why isn't our government insisting for a similar initiative here in the United Kingdom?

What you are doing is great, it is an encouraging start, and the battle must rage on. Please remember that you are not alone and that you have many many people in the public backing you up. We may not be as visible as we'd like to be; but we are here. It is only by addressing the issue and persevering in this path that we will achieve something; it will get onto our TV screens, as it is an issue that is central to the public, and the public's opinion as you know is crucial.

Keep it up and keep the pressure on Brown