HC Deb 14 January 1994 vol 235 cc332-3W
Mr. George Robertson

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland when he will have completed consideration of the British Railways (No. 3) Provisional Order.

Mr. Lang

In line with the procedures laid down in the general orders under the Private Legislation Procedure (Scotland) Act 1936 which apply to this draft provisional order, discussions on the content of the order are taking place between my officials and the partlamentary agents acting on behalf of the promoters, British Rail. There is outstanding a petition against the draft order and if that petition is not withdrawn, an inquiry will require to be held before parliamentary commissioners. If the petition is withdrawn, I shall make arrangements for the order confirmation Bill to be introduced into Parliament as soon as possible after completion of these discussions and the necessary statutory procedures. It is hoped that the Bill will be in a position to receive Royal Assent before the Easter recess.