HC Deb 24 February 1970 vol 796 cc963-4
10. Mr. Berry

asked the Minister of Transport whether, in view of the increase in passenger arrivals at Heathrow Airport on account of the jumbo jet coming into regular service and the need for British Railways, Southern Region, to complete their plans for their new signalling equipment, he has now come to a decision about a rail or underground link with Heathrow; and whether he will make a statement.

Mr. Mulley

The essential cost benefit analysis is taking longer than expected. When I have received and studied the results and consulted interested parties I will announce the decision.

Mr. Berry

Is the Minister aware that his reply is rather unsatisfactory, since he told me in November that a decision would be announced early in the new year? To facilitate his Answer, I put my supplementary questions into my Question to show how important the matter was. The right hon. Gentleman must make an urgent decision on this vital matter.

Mr. Mulley

I am sorry to hear about the hon. Member's supplementary questions. Had he let me know, I probably could have suggested some supplementaries. But the fact is that this is a complex matter and it is right that we should do a full cost-benefit analysis. It is not easy to get the right decision. Haste in decision-making does not help.

Mr. Lipton

Is it not a fact that the cheapest method of linking up will be to continue the Piccadilly Line from Hounslow West into the airport? Will that not be quicker to complete than any other plan the Minister might be considering?

Mr. Mulley

If we had already formed that view I would have announced it, but I have not. This is what the cost-benefit study is all about.

Mr. Berry

In view of the unsatisfactory nature of the answer, I give notice that at the earliest possible moment I shall seek to raise the matter on the Adjournment.