HC Deb 25 July 1986 vol 102 cc520-1W
Mr. Alfred Morris

asked the Secretary of State for Transport what account he is taking of the decision on the level of funding for dial-a-ride schemes in Greater London in determining the component for funding such schemes in Greater Manchester included in the 1987–88 expenditure limit for the Greater Manchester passenger transport authority; what assessment he has made of the level of expenditure of the authority for such services if funded on a similar per capita basis to that agreed for Greater London; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. David Mitchell

The level of funding for dial-a-ride schemes outside Greater London is a matter for local authorities to decide, in the context of their overall priorities. In London the dial-a-ride scheme is funded by a nationalised industry, London Regional Trasnport. I am aware of Greater Manchester's proposals for special needs transport and these were carefully considered before determining the authority's expenditure level.

Mr. Alfred Morris

asked the Secretary of State for Transport what account he has taken of the costs incurred by the Greater Manchester passenger transport authority in setting up the Initial Bus Company in determining that authority's expenditure level for 1987–88; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. David Mitchell

In determining Greater Manchester passenger transport authority's expenditure level for 1987–88, we took account of its total expenditure requirements, including the costs which may be incurred by the authority following the establishment of the Initial Bus Company. We will, of course, consider carefully any redetermination application which may be submitted by the authority, including any representations on such costs.

Mr. Alfred Morris

asked the Secretary of State for Transport if, in view of the time scale for decisions on the level of rail services in the area and in Cheshire and Derbyshire in 1988–89, he will make it his policy to give the Greater Manchester passenger transport authority notice by the end of the current year of the likely level of funds to be made available to it in that year; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. David Mitchell

I refer the right hon. Gentleman to my reply on 20 June to the hon. Member for Withington (Mr. Silvester), column 666.