§ 7. Mr. Dempseyasked the Secretary of State for the Environment when high-speed trains will come into operation in the United Kingdom.
§ Mr. PeytonThe high-speed diesel train is due to come into full commercial service in 1976.
§ Mr. DempseyMay we have an indication of when that train is likely to be introduced between Glasgow and London? In view of the fact that it has been widely reported that on some stretches of its route it will travel at 150 mph, may we be told whether the Minister is satisfied with the safety devices which are to be adopted?
§ Mr. PeytonThere is always the possibility of widespread reports, some of which the hon. Gentleman may have seen, being inaccurate. The electrification of the West Coast main line to Scotland will be completed by May this year. Therefore, the operation of the high-speed diesel train on that route would be rather counter-productive.