Trade unions have pledged their backing to expanding Heathrow on the back of a promise that 180,000 new jobs would be created around the country.
The TUC was today guaranteed a place on a new Heathrow Skills Taskforce to be led by former Labour minister Lord David Blunkett alongside 12 other members representing local government, business, further education and youth social action.
The jobs promise from the west London hub is among five pledges to unions issued coincide with the start of the TUC annual congress.
The TUC, along with the Unite, GMB, Prospect, and Balpa unions wrote to prime minister Theresa May last month calling for a quick decision for on Heathrow expansion.
Heathrow chief executive, John Holland-Kaye, said: “Heathrow expansion, along with its huge potential for jobs, apprenticeships and skills creation, will be the cornerstone of any government plan to make Brexit a success. Now more than ever, we need private investment and infrastructure projects that link us to the world and show that Britain is open for business.
“With the support and experience of the TUC, we will ensure Heathrow expansion delivers a lasting economic legacy for generations of British people.”
TUC general secretary, Frances O’Grady, said: “Trade unions are proud to be working with Heathrow to ensure that the third runway delivers thousands of high-quality jobs and apprenticeships.
“Today’s pledges will help ensure high-quality conditions and opportunities for workers in construction, airport operation, and throughout the supply chain. We are also pleased the TUC will also be represented in the Skills Taskforce where we will play a key part in fostering the next generation of workers at the airport.
“Our economy needs a shot in the arm. That means serious investment and a major infrastructure upgrade. Expanding Heathrow is an ideal project, as it’s shovel-ready and will have long-term benefits.
“But government delay is stopping us from getting to work. Now is the time for decision. We urge Theresa May to give the government’s final go ahead to the third Heathrow runway.”