THE Government says it will not appeal against a High Court judgement saying it was wrong to exclude Gatwick airport from its options for airport expansion in the south east.

Transport minister Alastair Darling has told MPs that the Government will abide by the ruling, accept the judgement and now extend the consultation to include Gatwick.

Kent and Medway councils, opposed to an airport being built at Cliffe, near Rochester, sought a Judicial Review of the Government’s failure to incorporate Gatwick and their challenge was upheld by the High Court.

In a statement today Mr Darling told the House of Commons any counter appeal would lead to further delay. He said: “Having considered the matter, I believe it would be wrong to extend the uncertainty that would inevitably result from a lengthy appeal process, and so I have therefore decided to accept the judgement.

"As a result we will include Gatwick in the consultation. This will regrettably mean that the publication of the White Paper will be delayed.”

Sandy Bruce-Lockhart, leader of Kent County Council, said "We are delighted that the Government has decided not to appeal. We now hope the consultation moves forward as quickly as possible on behalf of all the residents right across the South East."

Mr Darling said he would set out his plans for further consultation shortly.