Manston Airport is not viable as an airport business.
Several airlines have attempted to make money flying scheduled services in/out of Manston. Some went bust trying whilst all the others lost money. The airport just doesn't have the population in its catchment area to make services viable. It is in the wrong place.
The campaign to 'save Manston' is deluded. The only reason politicians are showing an interest is because there is an election campaign and UKIP is contesting one of the local seats.