§ 94. Mr. Cleggasked the Minister of Transport what consultations he had with local authorities in the North Fylde before the announcement of the impending closure of the Kirkham to Fleetwood passenger service.
§ Mr. MarshIn my answer to the hon. Member for Sudbury and Woodbridge (Mr. Stainton) on 15th November, I announced my refusal to grant-aid this service, but made it clear that the service would continue to operate as at present until I reach a decision on the statutory closure proposal which I understand the British Railways Board is about to publish. Before deciding not to grant-aid the service I did not consult the local authorities, since it will be open to them to make representations during the normal statutory procedure. I did, however, consult the North West Economic Planning Council.—[Vol. 773, c.172–801]
§ Mr. Cleggasked the Minister of Transport if he will supply a breakdown of the figures of cost on which he based his decision to refuse financial support for the continuance of the passenger service from Kirkham to Fleetwood.
§ Mr. CarmichaelThe estimated annual deficit grant required to maintain this service was calculated as follows:
£ Movement … 42,000 Terminal … 30,000 Track and Signalling … 49,000 Interest and Administration … 17,000 Total Costs … 138,000 Less Earnings … 15,000 Total of grant required … 123,000