HC Deb 20 October 1971 vol 823 cc717-8
39. Mr. Spearing

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment when he intends to announce his decision concerning the Fleet Line.

Mr. Peter Walker

I announced my decision on 18th August to pay 75 per cent. grant towards the cost of the first stage of the line, from Baker Street to the Strand. This is a commitment of £26 million, the biggest grant ever made to London Transport.

Mr. Spearing

I thank the right hon. Gentleman for that reply and for his statement after the Question was tabled, but is he aware that many people feel that the section from New Cross to the Strand is as important as the line from the Strand to Baker Street? If he is making some inquiry, would it not be a good thing to authorise that work now, as it can stand on its own feet?

Mr. Walker

The Dockland Study is an important aspect here and I am advised that this stage had to go ahead first. We will make a decision in plenty of time for the next stage if it is decided that it is the correct thing to do.

Mr. Selwyn Gummer

Will my right hon. Friend bear in mind that the stretch of line from Lewisham to New Cross is a vital link now that the arrangements for motorways and similar roads in the area seem to be going ahead? May we have an early decision on this point so that the local authority may make suitable preparations for the reception of this end of the line?

Mr. Walker

As soon as we know the results of the Dockland Study, which is of immense importance to London as a whole, we will make a decision. The grant for the first stage, the extra bus grants, investments for trains, and so forth, that I have announced show that the Government are doing far more for London Transport than any of their predecessors did.