John Healey has backed a third runway at Heathrow, arguing that expanding the airport would help the government pursue its central objective of stronger economic growth.
The Chancellor made the intervention at the International Monetary Fund's annual meeting in Bangkok on Friday. He said the case for the additional runway had always rested on growth.
His comments amount to a clear statement of support after Prime Minister Andy Burnham declined last month to endorse the project, saying the decision was a matter for people living near the airport.
Expansion has long divided politicians and communities. Business groups, airlines and investors have supported greater airport capacity, while residents have raised concerns about aircraft noise and campaigners have questioned the implications for climate targets.
The proposal has not yet completed the planning process and Healey's remarks do not constitute final approval. Heathrow said in September that a third runway might not open until 2039.
As Chancellor, Healey is responsible for economic and fiscal policy, including the government's approach to growth and productivity. His intervention places a major infrastructure project directly within that agenda.
