A TORY MP put pressure on a Government minister to make a swift decision over Southend Airport’s £30million expansion plans.

James Duddridge questioned Communities Secretary John Denham in the Commons after the controversial proposals to extend the airport runway were backed by Southend Council’s development control committee.

Before the plan was considered, Mr Denham decided to take the final decision away from the council and either give the go-ahead, or call a public inquiry to scrutinise the plan.

Speaking in the Commons, Mr Duddridge, Rochford and Southend East MP, urged Mr Denham to consider the plan quickly and make a decision.

He told the minister: “It would be helpful to the local community if he could tell us roughly when he will make a decision on that matter, and whether there will be a need for a public inquiry. The sooner the better.”

However, Mr Denham would not be drawn on the issue and said it was inappropriate to comment.

Airport operator, the Stobart Group, hopes to have the runway extension complete to take advantage of the 2012 London Olympics.