HC Deb 24 October 1988 vol 139 cc13-4
17. Mr. Shersby

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what progress has been made within the central London rail study which he set up on 25 March; whether the study includes an appraisal of the service on the Metropolitan line serving Uxbridge; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Portillo

We hope to receive a report from the central London rail study and announce the main findings towards the end of the year. The options being considered include the improvement of Metropolitan line services.

Mr. Shersby

Is my hon. Friend aware that the service on the Metropolitan line to Uxbridge has deteriorated very considerably in recent years because of the very heavy usage of the service? That has necessitated some trains being taken off to allow the signalling procedures to operate properly. Will he look carefuly at this matter and consider what additional resources and facilities can be devoted to rail travel between Uxbridge and central London, as this is of great importance to people living in the area?

Mr. Portillo

I am sorry to hear about my hon. Friend's problems. He has put his finger on the matter of new investment, which may be the key. This year £230 million was invested in London Underground and he will draw considerable comfort from that. That investment is 50 per cent. up on the last year of the GLC.