§ Miss McIntoshTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport what assessment he has made of the impact of the central line closure on(a) businesses in London, 413W (b) shops and stores in London and (c) galleries and theatres in London; and if he will make a statement. [103987]
§ Mr. JamiesonMy right hon. Friend and I are very much aware from the representations that have been made to us of the problems which customers and businesses are suffering as a consequence of the central line closure. We share their concerns about the considerable time it has taken to restore services and we recognise the great patience that those affected have already shown. Every effort must be made to minimise the continuing impact on Londoners. It is essential that, following the successful resumption of train services on the eastern part of the line on 14 March and, I am pleased to report, between Haling Broadway and Marble Arch on 24 March, the service is restored to other destinations. We will be keeping up the pressure for London Underground to deliver these improvements to the service at the earliest possible date.