AIRPORT operator BAA has welcomed the decision to injunct certain campaign groups from protesting at Climate Camp near Heathrow Airport.

But campaigners say BAA has just failed to get the 'mother of all injunctions' it wanted.

Mark Bullock, managing director of BAA Heathrow said: "This injunction has never been about stopping lawful and peaceful protests. BAA has always respected people's democratic right to protest lawfully.

"We accept that there is an important debate to be had regarding climate change.

"The motivation behind the injunction was to protect our passengers and staff from being harassed or obstructed by any unlawful direct action. Our passengers and staff also have rights."

He added: "Around 1.5 million passengers are due to pass through Heathrow during the week of climate camp, many of them families on their summer holidays. It is our responsibility to ensure that we do everything we can to guarantee their safety and comfort during this very busy period.

"Plane Stupid spokespeople have repeatedly stated that they are planning mass direct action to disrupt the operations of the airport. BAA therefore had no choice but to explore every legal avenue available to minimise any disruption to the airport's operations.

"With the current terrorism threat, keeping Heathrow safe and secure is a very serious business. Any action taken by the protestors that distracts us or the police from this task is irresponsible and unlawful."

"We welcome the decision of the High Court granting an injunction against Plane Stupid and all those acting in concert with them for the purpose of disrupting the operations of Heathrow Airport."

Joss Garman, from Plane Stupid, said: "BAA came here asking for an injunction for millions of people - and they have failed to get that.

"They have failed to injuct groups like NoTRAG, HACAN, and Airport Watch."