Liberal Democrats have outlined opposition to a new airport or expansion in the South East of the UK, including Heathrow.

The party, which is part of the Conservative-led coalition UK government, is set to rule out support for a proposed airport in the Thames Estuary, favoured by London Mayor, Boris Johnson.

Lib Dems will also repeat its opposition to new runways at Heathrow, Gatwick or Stansted.

Gatwick's latest master plan contains the option to add a second runway. Heathrow has long favoured adding a third runway.

The proposals will be put to party members at the Lib Dem conference next month.

The party will call instead for an independent study to find a location for a new hub airport or an existing airport that is suitable for expansion.

Last month Transport Secretary, Justine Greening MP, delayed a consultation on future UK airport capacity until the autumn.