§ 58. Mr. John H. Osbornasked the Secretary of State for Transport what discussions he has had with the chairman of British Railways about the possible closure of the rail link between Sheffield and Manchester via Woodhead, and the modernisation and possible electrification of the line via Chorley and Edale; and if he will make a statement about the possible alternatives, and any decisions he has reached.
§ Mr. HoramI understand that the board has produced an internal report based on studies of the four main trans-Pennine routes and that the board and the rail unions are due to meet shortly to consider the options. The board says that it will make no decision on the future of the trans-Pennine routes until it has finished its consultations.
My right hon. Friend intends to mention these routes to the chairman of the Railways Board when they next meet.