§ 23. Mr. Dubsasked the Secretary of State for Transport what further representations he has received about London Transport fares since the increase on 21 March.
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§ Mr. David HowellI continue to receive correspondence and newspaper coupons about London Transport fares, which are a GLC responsibility, generated by the GLC's misleading propaganda campaign which has already cost ratepayers £250,000 and to which I understand it is now voting fresh sums.
§ 26. Mr. Dykesasked the Secretary of State for Transport if he plans to discuss the revised fares scheme with London Transport, following the change in the fares structure on 21 March.
§ Mr. David HowellLondon Transport fares are a matter for the London Transport Executive and the GLC; but I have made it clear that I deplore the increase in faxes which they have judged necessary to put London Transport's finances back into order following the follies and extravagance of the last few months. So that Londoners are not faced with further irresponsible cost rises and fare increases, I have asked the GLC to prepare a proper and well considered plan for London Transport that will make more effective and responsible use of the very considerable resources available to it.
§ 32. Mr. Raceasked the Secretary of State for Transport when he last met the leader of the Greater London Council to discuss fare levels in London.
§ Mr. David HowellI met him on 8 January when the LT budget, approved by the GLC and from which the fare levels flow, was among the subjects discussed. I also met him on 8 March when I asked him to consider how, by adjusting services better to real need and by containing costs, it would be possible to reduce fares.