Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves made the case for expanding Heathrow in the strongest hint yet that she’s preparing to green-light a controversial third runway at London’s busiest airport in a decision that’s divided the government.

Reeves is expected to make an announcement backing airport expansion next week, as part of major speech on plans to boost the economy. Asked if this was likely to include Heathrow, the chancellor did not answer directly but said the government had already signed off the expansion of London City Airport and Stanstead.

Rachel Reeves suggested the full Cabinet must back any potential expansion of Heathrow Airport despite previous opposition from senior Government figures, as she all but confirmed plans to endorse a third runway.

The Conservative Party leader, whose constituency includes Stansted Airport, said she has supported the expansion of the UK's largest airport in the past, and would not change her mind on doing so.