HC Deb 11 July 1983 vol 45 c588
8. Mr. Warren

asked the Secretary of State for Transport when he will announce a decision or, the form of improvements to the Hastings-Tonbridge railway line.

Mr. David Mitchell

We hope to announce a decision shortly.

Mr. Warren

I hope that "shortly" is in the near future. Although I am grateful to my hon. Friend for the personal interest that he has shown in the subject and the meetings that he has held with interested parties, will he confirm that he recognises that the improvement of that line is essential if the area is to build up its industry and employment? Is he aware that the area has been sadly neglected by successive Governments for the past 30 years?

Mr. Mitchell

I fully recognise that the improvement of the line is wrapped up with the future of Hastings as a business growth area. I received a deputation that my hon. Friend brought to see me last week. It presented a formidable case for early investment in the line. I have taken that fully on board.

Mr. Spearing

Does the Minister agree that one of the options for that line is to electrify between Tunbridge Wells and Hastings? in that event, how would le define a fully commercial return as a percentage of capital?

Mr. Mitchell

There are many options for improving that line. Electrification is just one. We shall be looking for——

Mr. Spearing

A miracle.

Mr. Mitchell

If the hon. Gentleman wants a specific rate of return, perhaps, he would like to table a question.

Sir Geoffrey Johnson Smith

Is my hon. Friend aware that the line is important not simply because of Hastings? It runs through many constituencies and is vital to a large part of the south-east region.

Mr. Mitchell

My hon. Friend is right. Among the deputation that I received were representatives from various towns all the way from Hastings to Tunbridge Wells. I am fully aware of the line's importance to the area.

Mr. Robert Hughes

Will the Minister assure us that the commercial criteria that will be applied to the Hastings line will be exactly the same as those that are applied to the east coast main line?

Mr. Mitchell

No, because it is not an inter-city line.