Debate on controversial plans to expand Gatwick is too important to be dominated by householders living near the airport, businesses have been warned.
Hove MP Ivor Caplin said decisions on the airport's future would have a huge impact on jobs and the economy of Sussex.
He is concerned people living in Crawley and other surrounding towns and villages are the only ones to have a say in proposals for a second runway.
Addressing a reception for Sussex Institute of Directors at Westminster last night, he urged business leaders to have their say in favour of the plans.
Labour MP Mr Caplin, a longstanding supporter of a second runway, said: "In terms of the economy it is important to the whole county.
"It is not a matter which can just be the remit of the people of Crawley and Horsham. It has to be a pan-Sussex issue."
The Government announced three possible options for extending Gatwick earlier this year.
Mr Caplin said the feedback from his speech was positive.
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