British finance minister Rachel Reeves gave her biggest indication yet that she would support expanding London's Heathrow hub, saying driving economic growth was the government's priority in answer to a question about airport expansion.

Government could back much-delayed plan for third runway at Heathrow, as well as expansion of Gatwick and Luton airports

Rachel Reeves is set to face down prominent Labour critics of plans to expand Heathrow, saying the need for economic growth trumps other concerns. The Chancellor is expected to use a speech on growth next week to support the proposed third runway at the west London airport and endorse expansion at Gatwick and Luton Airports.