Sadiq Khan: I could use taxpayers' money to fight the Chancellor's Heathrow expansion
Sir Sadiq Khan has signalled he could use taxpayers' money to fight the Chancellor's planned expansion of Heathrow Airport.
The Labour Mayor of London is a long-standing opponent of a third runway at the airport, which was backed by Rachel Reeves in a major speech in January.
Ms Reeves said that a 'badly-needed' third runway could create 100,000 jobs and may be finished and operational within a decade.
But Sir Sadiq has led a Labour rebellion against the proposals, saying he could pursue legal action relating to the impact on the environment.
In an interview with BBC Radio 4's Today programme, he asked whether he was prepared to use Londoners' money to launch a legal challenge.
He replied: 'Look, I'm a pro-business, pro-growth mayor. We recently announced a London Growth Plan because I really believe in the importance of growing the economy.'
When pressed on whether he would launch a legal challenge, Sir Sadiq said: 'I agree with nearly all of Rachel's policies relating to growth.
'But let's wait and see what plans Heathrow publish. Look, if Heathrow don't address the concerns I've highlighted, then, of course, my job is to stand for London.'
Asked if he would use his mayoral budget if needed, he replied: 'Let's wait and see what plans Heathrow publish.
'But I will use all the tools in my tool kit if I think it's wrong in terms of Londoners' interest, and indeed the national interest.'
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