The Mayor of London hopes the government is seriously listening to the concerns of people opposing the expansion of Heathrow Airport.

Boris Johnson's comments come after the announcement by the secretary of state for transport, Geoff Hoon, to delay the decision over a third runway until the new year.

The government was due to deliver its verdict in the next few weeks, but in a statement Mr Hoon said he needed time to properly consider the evidence.

Mr Johnson, said: “This is the second time that the government have deferred the decision on the third runway at Heathrow.

“I, like many Londoners, hope that this is an indication that they are starting to listen to reason and take seriously the concerns of the many thousands of people who would be badly affected by the scheme.

“A third runway could have serious environmental consequences, and it is imperative that the government consider alternatives to it, as I have been doing.

“I don't think it should be built, and if the government listen to the people of London, it will not be built.”