§ 42. Mr. Newensasked the Minister of Transport which local authorities are refusing to make a contribution towards the financial support of local rail services not operated by British Railways or to claim the central Government grant for which they are eligible for this purpose; and if any services are threatened with closure as a result.
§ Mr. FowlerEssex and Buckinghamshire county councils have for some years made no contribution towards the cost of London Transport's rail services within their respective areas. The hon. Member will be aware that the London Transport Executive has given notice, as required by sections 54 and 56 of the Transport Act 1962, of its intention to close the Epping-Ongar branch of the Central Line, which lies within Essex.