MSP's fury over airport charges increase

LOTHIANS SNP MSP Ian McKee has hit out at airport operator BAA over proposals to raise domestic departure charges by more than 50 per cent at Heathrow.

The company wants to increase charges at Heathrow from 13.43 to 20.25 from April 2011.

Dr McKee warned the move would hit Scots travellers and harm the Scottish economy.

He has won cross-party support for a motion in the Scottish Parliament calling on BAA to reconsider their proposals.

Dr McKee said: "Heathrow is a major international gateway for Scottish passengers and its connectivity is crucial for local businesses. In the absence of a high speed rail network that extends to Scotland, it's crucial that the Scottish economy benefits from value air links.

"Why should Scottish passengers travelling to London have to pay the same charges as someone travelling internationally?

"Clearly BAA hasn't thought this one through."