HC Deb 12 June 1974 vol 874 cc1595-6
7. Mr. Berry

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment when he expects the advanced passenger train to be introduced into service; and if he will make a statement.

39. Mr. Teddy Taylor

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will make a statement on the progress made in the advanced passenger train project.

49. Mr. Leslie Huckfield

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment whether he will make a statement on the introduction into service of the advanced passenger train.

Mr. Mulley

I am considering the board's proposals for the construction of four prototypes, which could be in trial service from 1977.

Mr. Berry

Is the Minister aware that I hope he will take into account the environmental results of the trains? We welcome their earliest possible use, but the effect on those living nearby will be serious, and must be considered. Will the right hon. Gentleman say something about the attitude of the unions, particularly ASLEF, following the report in the Daily Mail earlier this week about the high-speed diesel train and action which may have lost us considerable exports to the United States? It is an important matter, and I hope that the Minister will consider it seriously.

Mr. Mulley

The decision involves a number of difficult matters, which is why it is taking a little time. The environmental aspects are among those that must be considered. I understand that there have been no problems about the train or the high-speed diesel train running for trial and experimental purposes, but the union has put a ban on their use for the carriage of passengers. I understand from the Chairman of British Rail that that is why the difficulty arose earlier this week.

Mr. Taylor

Is the Minister aware that there is great enthusiasm in Scotland about the advanced passenger train, which will revolutionise transport from Scotland to London? When does the right hon. Gentleman expect the Edinburgh—London and Glasgow-London services to start? Is it the policy of the Government or the Railway Board to impose a surcharge for the faster journey?

Mr. Mulley

The hon. Gentleman wants to jump a large number of hurdles all at once. The first need is to get the train into production and have satisfactory trials before we can give firm dates for the start of particular services. The question of fares policy will not arise until we are in a position to go firm on particular services.