HC Deb 20 June 1979 vol 968 c1312
24. Mr. McCrindle

asked the Minister of Transport if he has had recent discussions with the Greater London Council regarding the extension of the Jubilee Line to Fenchurch Street.

Mr. Fowler

This is a proposal on which my Department has had many discussions with the GLC over a long period of time.

Mr. McCrindle

I thank my right hon. Friend for that extremely helpful reply. Whilst I accept the constraints on Government expenditure, especially of this size, may I ask him whether he would be prepared to have discussions with the GLC if that body considers that, albeit possibly with financial guarantees, it could go ahead without Government assistance?

Mr. Fowler

This is one of the points that we are considering and one of the issues that we shall take into account.

Mr. Christopher Price

Will the right hon. Gentleman do something to curb the megalomanic plans of Sir Horace Cutler of the GLC, who appears to want to build out of his own resources not only a Tube line but also a major motorway through East London. What discussions has the Minister had with Sir Horace Cutler, and what agreement has he reached already about the matter?

Mr. Fowler

I am seeing Sir Horace shortly. I think that the whole House would like to say, contrary to what the hon. Gentleman has said, that it congratulates Sir Horace on his well-deserved knighthood.

Mr. Jay

Has the right hon. Gentleman noticed that every one of his supporters who has spoken today wants an increase in public expenditure?

Mr. Fowler

That is not my interpretation of their questions.