Heathrow expansion: No 10 refuses to repeat Cameron's promise to decide this year

PM said in July that decision would be taken in 2015 over whether to allow third runway, but spokeswoman now only says 'clear direction' will be given

Downing Street has said David Cameron will give a "clear direction" on Heathrow expansion before the end of the year, but refused to repeat the prime minister's promise that there would be a final decision in 2015.

Amid intense speculation that the decision is to be delayed by at least six months, Cameron's official spokeswoman denied that the government's plans had changed, arguing that ministers had said only that they provide "clear direction on the government's plans" later in the year.