§ Mr. ChidgeyTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport by what mechanisms he plans to deliver financial support for rail services in the English and Scottish passenger transport executive areas in(a) 1997–98, (b) 1998–99 and (c) 1999–2000; and what estimates he has made of the amounts to be provided. [10422]
§ Mr. WattsWe intend that, subject to the approval of the House of Commons, special grant should be paid in 1997–98 and beyond to all the English passenger transport authorities, for local railway services in their areas. Similarly, The Scottish Office intends, subject to the approval of the House of Commons, to pay special grant to Strathclyde PTA. The exact level of support for these rail services in future years will not be determined finally until the franchises have been signed, and the levels of services settled with the PTEs.