Manston airport could play a large role in the development of air traffic in and out of London, according to Kent County Council leader Paul Carter.

And the Mayor of London, Boris Johnson, also promoted the idea of making greater use of Kent International Airport when being interviewed about the government’s agreement to a third runway at Heathrow.

Mr Carter, who is also the chairman of the newly formed South East England Councils (SEEC) and represents all 74 councils in the region, said he had had "very constructive" discussions with Boris Johnson and his officers.

He welcomed the opportunity of the Manston airport being turned into a "significant regional hub".

Mr Carter added: "Kent International Airport could handle six million passenger movements a year which would boost the local economy in an area of high deprivation."

He said the high speed rail links between Ramsgate and London, due to start at the end of the year, will dramatically reduce travel times and make KIA airport an attractive option.