THE House of Commons Transport Committee today publishes a report recommending abolition of Air Passenger Duty and increased capacity at Heathrow Airport.

James Ramsbotham, the North East Chamber of Commerce (NECC) chief executive, said:

“NECC has lobbied passionately in recent years for the removal of APD and the proposals put forward by the House of Commons Transport Committee are very much in line with our own aspirations.

“The removal of APD would help the North-East secure more long haul flights and achieve the priority target of attracting a direct flight to the US.

“Air Passenger Duty (APD) is a clear example of a tax applied only in the UK. That increases costs and turns businesses off the idea of expanding overseas. This tax is more damaging in regions such as the North East where the Government has pledged to generate towards more private sector activity.

“By removing APD – even for a 12 month period as suggested - the North East could further improve on our impressive export performance and deliver more for UK PLC.

“A third Heathrow runway will also have a positive impact on regional business, improving links from North- East airports to the capital and beyond. Hopefully the Government will change its stance on the issue of the third runway for the sake of the greater economic good.”

NECC Vice President and Newcastle International Airport Chief Executive, Dave Laws, said: “I very much welcome the main recommendations in the Select Committee report. Both their support for additional runways at Heathrow and their call for action in relation to Air Passenger Duty would benefit the North-East.

“It is now for the Davies Commission to consider the case for Heathrow expansion and for the Treasury to reform APD. We will continue to work with all partners in the region on both fronts.”