Climate change protesters staging die-in cause traffic chaos

Pic: Peaceful protest
Staff reporter(wp/es):

Protesters brought traffic to a standstill near to Heathrow airport on Saturday morning in a demonstration against the planned third runway.

Police arrested 15 people after a group of climate change activists brought traffic to a standstill as they rushed onto the M4 Spur Road to stage a die-in.

Cars were forced to stop as the campaigners lay in the road and refused to move.

Elswhere ex-MP Zac Goldsmith, who resigned from his Richmond Park seat last month amid the airport expansion row, was seen speaking to campaigners at the demonstration.

Lib Dem candidate for Richmond Park Sarah Olney, former climate change secretary Ed Davey and Ukip's Suzanne Evans were also seen with protesters, many of whom were holding placards and posters.

Campaigners held signs which read "protect the planet, no more runways" and "residents against aircraft noise" as they chanted: "No ifs, no buts, no third runway".

The protest was organised following last month’s announcement that the government would be backing the £16 billion plan to increase the number of flights at Heathrow, Europe’s busiest airport.

The Met Police said they were aware of the planned protest and hope to work with the groups to ensure the demonstration stays peaceful.

A spokesman added: “However, we will have a proportionate policing plan in place and if there is criminal behaviour that leads to serious disruption or danger to anyone we will have a robust response to minimise disruption and maximise public safety. 

“People breaking the law may make themselves liable to arrest.”

Mr Goldsmith quit from his seat in Parliament after vowing to his constituents he would resign if the third runway plan was approved.

A spokeswoman for Heathrow said: "We can confirm that a number of climate change protests are taking place at Heathrow today.  Whilst we respect the right to peaceful protest, the safety of our passengers, aircraft and colleagues, together with the smooth running of the airport, is paramount.  

"We are working with the police to minimise any disruption, however passengers should allow extra time to travel to the airport, or use public transport where possible.”

The Met Police said as of 12.50pm they made a total of 15 arrests for obstructing the highway and public order offences.