HC Deb 17 January 1968 vol 756 cc1772-3
8. Mr. Judd

asked the Minister of Transport if she will make a statement on the proposals submitted to her by British Railways relating to the modernisation of the Waterloo to Portsmouth line.

Mr. John Morris

In the past seven months my right hon. Friend has approved two investment proposals affecting this line among others: re-signalling in the Surbiton- Woking area and the construction of 200 new electric-multiple-unit coaches.

Mr. Judd

Is my hon. Friend aware that there is considerable feeling that this line has been the Cinderella of recent railway development, notwithstanding the valiant efforts of the staff? In view of the important plans for economic development in South Hampshire, can my hon. Friend assure us that within available funds this line will have priority in future?

Mr. Morris

I thought that I had given some comfort to my hon. Friend when I indicated the expenditure on re-signalling which had been authorised and which amounts to £1.1 million. That should bring some comfort to his constituents.