HC Deb 15 May 1963 vol 677 cc1316-7
23. Mr. Ellis Smith

asked the Minister of Transport what expenditure was authorised by him for the modernisation and electrification of the Cheadle Hulme—Stoke-on-Trent main line, for the resignalling between Cheadle Hulme—Stoke-on-Trent line, and for the modernisation of the station at Stoke-on-Trent, respectively; what is the total cost of this works programme; and on what date it will be completed.

Vice-Admiral Hughes Hallett

I understand that, within the estimated cost of £175 million for the London Midland Electrification Scheme approved by my right hon. Friend as a whole; the British Railways Board have authorised expenditure for the modernisation and electrification of the Cheadle Hulme—Stoke-on-Trent section of the line at a total cost of £6.1 million, including £1.2 million for resignalling and telecommunications improvements. The works are expected to be completed by the end of 1966. With regard to Stoke-on-Trent Station, I have nothing to add to the answer given to the hon. Member for Stoke-on-Trent, South (Mr. Ellis Smith) and others on 6th March last.

Mr. Ellis Smith

Will the hon. and gallant Gentleman inform his right hon. Friend that there is great appreciation among millions of people living in the vicinity of the line of the fact that it will be modernised and electrified? Will he ask his right hon. Friend to give instructions to his principal officers that some drive and enterprise shall be put into this so that the people can benefit from this service as soon as possible?

Vice-Admiral Hughes Hallett

I am sure that my right hon. Friend will be most gratified at the hon. Gentleman's approval, and I can also assure him that the maximum drive is being put into the project.

Mr. Swingler

Will the hon. and gallant Gentleman also invite his right hon. Friend to meet the Members of Parliament representing north Stafford-shire in the darkness of Stoke-on-Trent station to see whether he agrees that something ought to be done about it?

Mrs. Slater

And quickly.

Vice-Admiral Hughes Hallett

I understand that the Railways Board has not yet finalised its plans for this station, but it is intended that it should be modernised to coincide with the introduction of the electric services on the line.

Mrs. Slater

But does the hon. and gallant Gentleman realise that in the meantime—and apparently it will be a number of years before this is done—the people who work there and use the station are to be condemned to use it in the shocking conditions which prevail—unless, of course, the hon. and gallant Gentleman can arrange for us to have another Royal visit, when we might get some improvements made?

Vice-Admiral Hughes Hallett

We have complete confidence in the judgment of the Railways Board in the phasing of the work. After all, 1966 is not all that far off.