Political infighting is set to dominate a meeting tonight (Friday) when plans to expand Gatwick airport are discussed.

Crawley Borough Council's executive meets to determine the authority's final stance on proposals for a second runway.

The body voted to back the scheme on June 11 by five votes to three.

But their decision - described as being made by "the chosen few" - was not supported by the full council this week when members voted 18-13 against expansion.

This means rejection of a close parallel runway at Gatwick or indeed any additional runways.

Now, council members are calling on the executive to support the view of the majority of members.

Councillor Bob Lanzer said: "This was a cross-party defeat for the council's executive reflecting majority opposition to a close parallel runway.

"Previously, three executive members had voted against the close parallel runway but these members had to vote with the executive at the full council meeting.

"If you add up all the votes against, you have 21 councillors out of 32, almost a two-thirds majority."

Coun Brenda Smith said: "We urge the executive to accept the clear ethical case against doing this.

"Surely they must now oppose extra runways at Gatwick. They are the chosen few but they surely cannot go against the wishes of such an overwhelming majority."

Friday June 27, 2003