HC Deb 16 December 1970 vol 808 cc1339-40
30. Mrs. Sally Oppenheim

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment when a decision is likely to result from the discussions which have been taking place between the British Railways Board and his Department, with regard to the re-siting of Gloucester Eastgate and Central Stations at Barnwood; and if he will give an assurance that this matter will be dealt with as speedily as possible.

Mr. Eldon Griffiths

Discussions about road access have been satisfactorily com- pleted. The decision to proceed further is one for British Rail.

Mrs. Oppenheim

I thank my hon. Friend for that reply. Is he aware that both Departments concerned were approached as long ago as 1968 and that, as the outcome of these discussions concerns the whole road system within the City of Gloucester, it is important that we have a definite decision one way or the other as soon as possible?

Mr. Griffiths

I am sure that the board of British Rail is well aware of this and will mike an announcement as soon as it can.

Mr. David Stoddart

Is it possible for the Minister to say what effect this will have on line working at Swindon? May we have an assurance that the trade unions and workers concerned will be consulted about this project before it goes ahead?

Mr. Griffiths

I am sure that British Rail kill follow its practice of consulting the trade unions. On the first part of that supplementary question, the hon. Gentleman might care to table a Question.