HC Deb 14 November 1983 vol 48 cc593-4
4. Mr. Forman

asked the Secretary of State for Transport when he next intends to meet the chairman of British Rail to discuss the future of short-haul commuter services.

The Under-Secretary of State for Transport (Mr. David Mitchell)

My right hon. Friend frequently meets the chairman to discuss matters of mutual interest, including commuter services.

Mr. Forman

When my right hon. Friend next meets the chairman of British Rail, will he propose a new deal for the commuters in my constituency? If the chairman of British Rail promised to ensure that the advertised trains actually run, and run on time, without cancellation at short notice, would the Department be prepared to look sympathetically at the possibility of new electrical rolling stock for the line, as some is as much as 40 years old?

Mr. Mitchell

New electrical rolling stock is a matter for proposed investment by British Rail if there is a viable use for it. Disruption has occurred to trains on the line running through my hon. Friend's constituency, for which British Rail apologises. The inconvenience has been caused largely because of a signal disruption and two major signalling investments which are being carried out. When those works are completed, there will be substantial improvements in timekeeping and speed.

Mr. Straw

Is the Minister aware that conditions on the north-east Lancashire line, which is heavily used by commuters, are appalling and that passengers are conveyed in rolling stock that is at least 25 years old? Thanks to cuts in Government grants, it appears that there is no prospect of the rolling stock being replaced. Is it Government policy to allow provincial railway lines, such as the north-east Lancashire line, to die through neglect?

Mr. Mitchell

That is entirely a matter for the management of British Rail. If I receive a viable proposal from British Rail to replace the rolling stock, we shall consider it constructively.

Mr. Tim Smith

Is my hon. Friend aware of the vital importance to my constituents of the High Wycombe to Marylebone railway line? Will he ensure that any decision about the future of the line, and especially of Marylebone station, is reached not in isolation but in the context of all the commuter services available?

Mr. Mitchell

I assure my hon. Friend that if a proposal is put before me about the closure of Marylebone station, I shall consider seriously the needs of the commuters in his constituency.