The grounding of Boris Island in the Thames estuary has narrowed the options for expanding the UK’s airport capacity. Which will be cleared for take-off?

London’s airports are already overflowing, while passenger numbers grow steadily year on year. We desperately need new runways – but where?A third runway at Heathrow, a second runway at Gatwick – or both? Each plan has its critics and their champions, but are we at risk of losing further ground in the race for global economic growth by delaying a decision?

The Spectator and Gatwick Airport hosted the inaugural Spectatordebate at Conservative Party Conference.

Please note this event is free to attend but is within the secure zone so please ensure that those wishing to attend have been accredited and have purchased tickets to attend the Conference.

Priti Patel MP, Exchequer Secretary (HM Treasury)

Stewart Wingate, Chief Executive, Gatwick

James Sproule, Chief Economist, Director of Policy, IoD

Paul Kehoe, Chief Executive Officer, Birmingham Airport

Captain William ‘Jock’ Lowe, Director, Heathrow Hub

Chaired by: Fraser Nelson, Editor, The Spectator

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