THE views expressed by Coun Christian Vassie (Evening Press, October 11) and John Galvin, his Conservative opponent at the last election, relating to Elvington Airfield are, regrettably, the usual half truths we have come to expect in politics.

While Coun Vassie is keen to identify solely the vagueness and lack of information provided in respect of the planning application for new hangers, John Galvin ignores this aspect but identifies that the proposals would go against green belt policy.

In fact the planning officers recommended refusal on both counts.

Having attended the planning committee meeting it was clear to me that no one was totally opposed to the expansion of the airfield. The view expressed by the Lib Dems was that refusal would "send out the wrong signals" while the Labour benches took the view that "other cities have airports so why shouldn't we?".

No case has yet been made for the establishment of an airport at Elvington and I doubt if one could be made given the close proximity of Leeds-Bradford and the availability in the York area of runways for private aircraft.

Richard Starks,

The Green,

Elvington, York.

Updated: 09:50 Wednesday, November 05, 2003