Britain requires a third runway at Heathrow Airport to enhance trade and support economic growth across the country, Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said on Monday. Speaking at an event during the Labour Party conference in Liverpool, Reynolds emphasized the need for increased aviation capacity to strengthen connections with key global cities, particularly in the east.

Reynolds described the expansion as essential for establishing a “global top-tier airport” capable of meeting future trade demands. He highlighted the relationship between Heathrow and the economic output of regions such as Scotland and the northeast of England, asserting that improved connectivity would benefit the wider UK economy.

The remarks come amid uncertainty over the government’s commitment to the Heathrow expansion project. Andy Burnham, the Labour leader, recently indicated that the decision to proceed with a third runway should primarily rest with London residents, underscoring doubts about full backing from within the party.

The third runway has been a prominent infrastructure priority under the Labour government, championed particularly by Chancellor Rachel Reeves in the previous administration led by Sir Keir Starmer. However, reports suggest the project could face significant delays, potentially not achieving completion until 2039, four years later than initially projected. As of now, the expansion has not secured planning permission.

Reynolds also touched on the broader need to accelerate the delivery of major infrastructure projects, acknowledging public dissatisfaction with essential services such as water provision. While he recognized concerns over the performance of water companies, he maintained that substantial private investment is necessary for transformative improvements.

Reflecting on the political atmosphere at the conference, Reynolds described the mood as more optimistic compared with the period following Labour’s 2024 general election victory. Having returned to the business secretary role in July after serving as chief whip, he indicated that the upcoming budget, to be presented by Chancellor John Healey, may avoid imposing additional burdens on businesses. Reynolds noted the government’s awareness of ongoing cost pressures affecting the private sector, suggesting a cautious approach ahead of the budget announcement.

As the debate over Heathrow’s future continues, Reynolds’s statements underscore the strategic importance Labour places on expanding airport capacity to support the UK’s long-term trade ambitions and economic resilience.