The Government’s decision to push back its announcement on Heathrow expansion has been welcomed by campaigner John Stewart.

Transport Secretary Geoff Hoon said a decision on whether to allow a third runway to be built at the airport will now be made in January as he wanted to give proper consideration to the 70,000 consultation responses received.

In a written statement to Parliament he said: "I know that there are strong views across a range of interests.

"I will ensure that I give proper consideration to the evidence before me and will therefore take more time before making an announcement to the House (of Commons), in January 2009."

A BAA spokesman added: “Given the complexity of the issues involved, we understand why the Government is taking further time to consider these matters.

“We welcome the fact that the Government has now committed to making a decision in January on how we keep Heathrow and this country globally competitive by maintaining our direct access to the world."

John Stewart, chairman of Hacan, welcomed the news. He said: “This is a sign that the Government is having a rethink and are feeling under pressure from all areas.

"In light of the credit crunch and recession it's just maybe that there is no real market for expansion at Heathrow."