UK government pushes back aviation consultation
In a disappointing, but not unexpected, announcement, the UK government has confirmed a planned consultation on expanding airports in south-east England has been delayed.
Expected to be announced later, the consultation has now been pushed back until the autumn, with government splits over a potential third runway at London Heathrow thought to be behind the latest decision.
The Liberal Democrats are believed to have maintained their opposition to a third runway at the airport.
However, a number of conservatives, reportedly including chancellor George Osborne, are believed to be warming to the idea.
Other options on the table include the building of extra runways at Stansted or Gatwick.
London mayor Boris Johnson has also proposed a Thames Estuary airport - dubbed Boris Island.
Another aviation paper dealing with noise, emissions and regional airports will go ahead today.