Two thirds of businesses surveyed by the Hillingdon Chamber of Commerce say they would back expansion at Heathrow.

Sixty-six per cent of the companies polled – a small sample of the chamber’s overall membership, and inclusive of firms in construction, property and finance, and at least one hotel – would support more runways at the airport.

One respondent said: “Heathrow needs to be the [UK’s] hub airport in order to continue to attract business and help local businesses thrive.”

Just over half (55.6 per cent) said Heathrow was part of the reason they are based in Hillingdon or Buckinghamshire.

Eighty-nine per cent said the issue of capacity at Heathrow did not affect their business, and none of them exported products.

The poll was carried out in April and May, and the results published last week.