Southampton Airport: Paul Holmes MP reveals death threat

An MP has received a death threat following his support for the extension of Southampton Airport's runway.

The member for Eastleigh Paul Holmes posted a copy of the email on social media, signed by "James Weight", which said he would be "taken and killed".

The Conservative had backed Southampton Airport's successful campaign to lengthen its runway.

Mr Holmes said he wanted to "name and shame" such threats and had reported it to the Parliamentary Authorities.

Southampton Airport wants to extend the runway by 164m (538ft) to facilitate the use of larger planes for holiday flights.

The proposals were eventually voted through earlier this month by Lib Dem-controlled Eastleigh Borough Council, despite objections by campaigners and some local authorities over noise and pollution.

Mr Holmes had backed the plans as "vital" for the local economy and set up a petition in favour after they were initially rejected by the council's planning committee.

He posted a copy of the email he received on Tuesday, which said: "Your support for this criminally stupid airport expansion has put a mark on your head, son."

Mr Holmes said it would "not stop me standing up and speaking for my constituents".

"I think it's sad that one individual wants to use threats and violence to shut down debate and silence those who disagree with them.

"We live in a democracy and we all have a right to express our opinion, without fear."

Hampshire Constabulary said it was investigating a report of a malicious communication.

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