§ 10. Mr. Eyreasked the Minister of Transport if she will now announce a decision as to the future of Snow Hill Station; and if she will make a statement.
§ Mr. John MorrisYes, Sir; my right hon. Friend has decided that Snow Hill Station should not be closed, and that passenger services should still be provided between Snow Hill and Wolverhampton Low Level, and also on the link line to Smethwick West.
§ Mr. EyreWhile welcoming the fact that a decision has at last been made, may I ask the Joint Parliamentary Secretary to remind the Minister that certain important planning proposals are badly held up in Birmingham and if the Answer means that there will be a partial closure at the station, will that be made clear as soon as possible so that development may be got under way?
§ Mr. MorrisI am well aware of those considerations, as is my right hon. Friend. It was a very important proposal, which needed study in all its aspects, having regard to the immense weight of commuter traffic from this great conurbation. I am also aware of the planning problem involved. We hope that most of the sites of Snow Hill will be available for release.
§ Mr. GrieveIs the Minister aware that since the train services to the south and west of Birmingham have been re-routed to New Street, they have suffered a serious deterioration both as to quality and as to quantity? Will he look into the matter and see that some improvement is effected?
§ Mr. MorrisThe hon. and learned Member should be aware that in this kind of matter—the kind of service which is available—the right avenue of approach is through the T.U.C.C. He can make any representations to that body.