With the question of Heathrow's third runway exercising minds at this time, perhaps more thought should be given if London's position as the heart of a thriving financial and commercial empire is jeopardised in any wayby inadequate access to international air carriers.
Alongside many others, we are being caught up in a recession that may get worse and is not helped by high fuel costs, which are ever escalating.
The enviable position that London holds as a financial entrêpot in the capitalist world could be endangered if adequate access to cargo and passenger airline traffic were denied.
Those of us battling to survive in conditions of almost constant noise from aeroplanes and breathing air contaminated by engine exhaust fumes, and, of cause those traumatised at the prospect of habitat translocation, should stop and reflect.
What did Britain do in the years around 1938/39 when she faced an even greater threat to her survival than she faces today?
The country was turned into a vast static aircraft carrier.
Airfields sprung up everywhere in the countryside to handle the air fleets of the RAF and our main ally, the United States of America.
Not a murmur was heard from these who might have been adversely affected by all this necessary upheaval.
The United Kingdom's wealth and leadership in the world could be affected if the third runway is not built, and built quickly.
The Government is right and they should get on with it, even if the protests and whingeing are loud and troublesome.
JIM PASQUAL Estridge Close, Hounslow.
