HC Deb 14 May 1973 vol 856 c253W
Mr. Michael McNair-Wilson

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment what investment in new rolling stock will be required to enable the advanced passenger train to be introduced by British Rail; and whether existing rolling stock, unmodified, can be used with the highspeed train.

Mr. Peyton

Investment in APT stock depends on future decisions about the programme. The high-speed diesels can draw existing Mk III coaches, with minor modifications.

Mr. Michael McNair-Wilson

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment when he expects the first high-speed train to go into service with British Rail; and if he will make a statement on the highspeed train programme to date.

Mr. Peyton

The board hopes that a prototype train will enter service later this year.