§ Lord Morris of Manchesterasked Her Majesty's Government:
How many representations they have had concerning the decision not to approve Manchester Metrolink; what replies they have had sent; and whether they will now urgently reconsider the decision. [HL4159]
§ Lord Davies of OldhamHer Majesty's Government have received over 700 letters concerning the decision to withdraw approval for funding for the Manchester Metrolink Phase III extensions. Replies have been sent explaining that the reason for the decision was the substantial further increase in costs; and that the Department for Transport will work with the Greater Manchester Passenger Transport Executive (GMPTE), as promoters for Metrolink, on developing alternative proposals. The department will consider carefully any alternative proposals. There have been 22 Parliamentary Questions concerning the decision on Metrolink. On 9 September the Secretary of State for Transport met a group of Greater Manchester MPs to discuss Metrolink.