Government 'could face fines over Heathrow air quality'

The British government could be subjected to daily fines after the air quality in the area surrounding Heathrow Airport was found to be below European standards.

Local residents made a formal complaint to the EU's environment commissioner Stavros Dimas after it was revealed that nothing has been done to remedy the situation.

The 2008 Air Quality Directive came into force on January 1st 2010, but people living the area have accused the government of failing to take action to comply with the EU law.

Geraldine Nicholson, a resident who chairs the No Third Runway Action Group, submitted the complaint.

She said: "Not only have ministers done nothing to reduce pollution, they now want to build a third runway that can only make it worse."

Ms Nicholson added that Westminster had demonstrated "complete disregard" towards the regulations and the health of people living in the area.

Wandsworth councillor Edward Lister echoed residents' concerns and called for the government to reconsider its position.

However, on February 8th, transport secretary Lord Adonis said that he is "confident" that an arrangement can be made with the European Commission relating to air quality issues, Associated Press reported.

Posted by Joseph Hutton