HC Deb 27 April 1988 vol 132 cc200-1W
Mr. Cryer

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport if he will list the criteria laid down by the group of local authorities offering financial support to the Settle-Carlisle railway, stating his response in each case; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. David Mitchell

The local authorities have offered £500,000 towards the capital costs of restoring Ribblehead viaduct, subject to the following conditions:

  1. a. that British Rail continues to maintain and operate the line;
  2. b. that the line's future be guaranteed for a period of at least 20 years;
  3. c. that the contributions are a "one-off' which should not be seen as setting any precedent and no further requests for financial support should be made;
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  4. d. that the revenue support contributions already agreed for the next two years will not be extended beyond that period.

My right hon. Friend is still considering this offer and the particular conditions attached to it.