Airport authorities have now announced that a third runway at Heathrow is unlikely to operate until 2039. One might add – if then.

It is said that the new Prime Minister, Andy Burnham, is not so committed to the proposals. He is reported as saying that it is a matter for London and Londoners. He will have concerns about climate change, noise, air pollution and transport. Given his desire to invest in northern projects, will he really think that £49 billion is good value.

Meanwhile Heathrow has said they agree that local voices must be heard, but that they know from their polling that communities support their plans for expansion. You have to wonder where they have done their polling, given the opposition across south west London.

There have of course been seven Prime Ministers in the last ten years.