§ Sir Keith SpeedTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport what recent discussions he has had with British Rail about their proposed order for rolling stock allowed for in the lease finance announced in last October's financial statement.
§ Mr. FreemanBritish Rail is currently considering what rolling stock to acquire on lease using the £150 million facility made available in last year's autumn statement. The choice between the two options—dual-voltage Networkers for Network SouthEast or IC225s for the west coast main line—is entirely a matter for British Rail in the light of negotiations with suppliers and lessors. I expect a decision in the summer.
I will support further leasing deals provided that they comply with the Treasury's guidelines.