HC Deb 23 January 1980 vol 977 cc293-4W
51. Mr. Les Huckfield

asked the Minister of Transport what plans have been submitted to him for increased investment in British Railways; and whether he will make a statement.

Mr. Fowler

In the 1979 investment and financing review the Railways Board sought an increase in its investment ceil- ing above the level set by the previous Administration. In Cmnd. 7746 the Government have maintained the existing level for 1980–81. Decisions on future years will be announced in the next public expenditure White Paper.

55. Mr. Ron Lewis

asked the Minister of Transport what investment proposals he has recently received from British Railways for rural and cross-country passenger services.

Mr. Fowler

None, but the Railway Board only informs my Department of investment proposals costing over £3.5 million. There may be smaller projects of which my Department is unaware as well as the normal maintenance and renewal of track and so on.