Spectator debate: No ifs. No buts. Heathrow must have a third run way

David Cameron knows that a third runway at Heathrow would be one of the most controversial and significant outcomes of his premiership, which is why he has kicked the decision into the long grass with the Davies Review. Thanks to ever spiralling passenger numbers and the bulging state of our existing airports, both London and the South East desperately need a plan to provide more air capacity. We’ve examined the numerous options on Coffee House but most immediate solution — to expand Heathrow — continues to find itself at top of the pile.

The Spectator has therefore decided to instigate the debate the government continues to avoid: is expanding Heathrow the answer? I’m delighted to announce that Graham Brady, the influential chair of the 1922 committee, will be speaking for the motion while Daniel Moylan, Boris Johnson’s right hand man on aviation, will be battling against. We’ve got more political and industry heavyweights in the pipeline and with Andrew Neil chairing, it promises to be an informative and action-packed evening.