THE chairman of Manchester Airport believes a decision on the much-needed second runway will come before the general election.

Cllr Graham Stringer told a press conference: "I would have thought it was irresistible for the Government to announce some time over the next three or four months."

He was speaking after European Transport Commissioner Neil Kinnock performed the official opening ceremony for the £7.5 million "Superhub" transfer facility which has been in operation for five months.

Mr Kinnock, the former Labour leader, was glowing in his praise for the airport and its achievements.

He was also keen to stress his "wholehearted" support for the second runway project.

Before he unveiled a commemorative plaque in the "Superhub", he said: "I am very pleased to be opening a first class facility which will assist trade between the UK and other European countries."

The "mini-airport" enables rapid transfer for passengers travelling between other UK regions and mainland Europe.

Cllr Stringer said: "Superhub will have an important role in linking our airport, strategically placed in the heart of England, to other regions of the UK.

"More passengers will avoid having to travel via London to their European destination.

"We hope that the hub will act as a spur to business in the region to establish new or to increase existing companies, thereby boosting job opportunities."

Geoff Muirhead, airport chief executive, said: "I hope that the advantages of using the new facility will attract more airlines, encouraging them to open new routes and to increase existing frequencies."

The 250 guests at the ceremony included Sir Michael Bishop, chairman of Airlines of Britain Group (which includes Business Air) and Herr Weber, cchairman of Lufthansa.

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.