THE CBI has welcomed the news that the Government’s plans to increase runway capacity in the South East have been ratified in the High Court.

The organisation claims the decision is vital to the economy of the entire country.

Nigel Bourne, CBI South East regional director, said: "Airports and ports are our gateway to overseas markets. If the UK is to keep its status as the world's premier trading nation we must allow airports to grow sensibly and that includes Heathrow and Stansted. British jobs depend on it.

"The economic case for airport development in the South East, and elsewhere in the UK, is as strong today as it was when the Government published its aviation white paper."

The ruling was prompted by legal challenges to plans announced in 2003 led by various local authorities. The judge ruled in the Government's favour with some minor technical qualifications.

Mr Bourne added: "While there's a clear strategic national need for allowing South East airports to grow, we recognise the environment can be affected.

"Initiatives to tackle local concerns can and should be pursued vigorously. Internationally aviation should be brought under the umbrella of emissions trading as part of the fight against climate change."