January 20, 2009 14:09

Geoff Hoon responds to Latitude festival environment claims

Secretary Of State for Transport tells NME.COM he 'enjoys' festival

Geoff Hoon MP, Secretary Of State for Transport, has responded to adverse comments by Latitude festival boss Melvin Benn.

Benn had criticised Hoon for his stance on the environment – suggesting that they were at odds with the festival's green ethos.

Festival Republic boss Benn said that although Hoon wasn't banned from the festival, it was "rather strange him being at such a green festival".

Benn added that Latitude regular Hoon would be given free tickets for life to the bash if he reversed his go-ahead decision for a forthcoming third runway at Heathrow Airport outside London.

Reacting to Benn's comments, the Secretary Of State issued a statement to NME.COM.

"I enjoy going to Latitude," he explained. "It has an excellent mixture of music, film, theatre and comedy.

"I've always admired the efforts to attract an audience of all ages and its commitment to the environment. I have been able to play my part by cycling there."

However he did not comment on the offer of free tickets for life in exchange for reversing the runway decision.