§ Mr. Alfred Morrisasked the Minister of Transport if she will now make a statement on the Manchester Rapid Transit Study.
§ Mrs. CastleThe Manchester Rapid Transit Study, which was commissioned jointly by the Manchester City Council and myself, is being published today. It makes an important contribution to our knowledge of rapid transit systems generally and of the various ways by which public transport could be improved in Manchester. The detailed analysis of the costs of construction and operation of rail and monorail systems and of their environmental effects will be of great value to all those concerned with urban planning.
I agree with the recommendations for further action as a result of this study. This envisages simultaneous progress on two fronts. First, there must be analysis of realistic rail networks as part of a comprehensive transport plan for the whole conurbation; this will be carried out through the land use/transportation study for the SELNEC area. At the same time detailed planning work on a possible underground railway to improve access to the centre of Manchester must 104W go ahead. I am arranging for urgent discussions with Manchester City Council on how to make rapid progress.
I shall be seeking powers to pay capital grants towards the cost of new public transport facilities and these would give me power to make grants towards any major new projects in Manchester provided they are justified in the context of a comprehensive transport plan for the whole conurbation.