HC Deb 16 February 1983 vol 37 cc171-2W
18. Dr. M. S. Miller

asked the Secretary of State for Transport when he expects to be able to decide which of the options of the Serpell report he will follow; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. David Howell

The Serpell report illustrates the cost of operating a range of different networks on various assumptions. As I indicated during the debate in the House on 3 February, these do not represent policy proposals. No decisions will be taken until all the facts and arguments have been considered.

21. Mr. Cook

asked the Secretary of State for Transport when he expects to reach a decision on the recommendations of the Serpell report.

Mr. David Howell

The British Railways Board is considering what action to take in the light of the committee's views on the scope for improvements in costs and efficiency in both the short and medium term. I shall give it my full backing in achieving these improvements as soon as possible. As to the longer term issues, I shall not reach conclusions until all the facts have been considered and the necessary public debate has been completed.

25. Mr. Flannery

asked the Secretary of State for Transport if he has discussed the Serpell report with the British Railways Board.

Mr. Eyre

My right hon. Friend has already begun discussions with the chairman and members of the British Railways Board about the Serpell report.

32. Mr. Les Huckfield

asked the Secretary of State for Transport when he will meet the chairman of the British Railways Board and the railway trade unions to discuss their response to the Serpell report on railways finances.

Mr. David Howell

I have already begun discussions with the chairman of the British Railways Board about the Serpell report. I have also invited each rail union to discuss the contents of the report with me, and one of these meetings has already taken place.

35. Mr. Foulkes

asked the Secretary of State for Transport what representations he has received from Scotland regarding the proposals contained in the Serpell report as they affect Scotland.

Mr. Eyre

About 15 from Scotland.

36. Mr. Sainsbury

asked the Secretary of State for Transport what representations he has received in respect of the railway finances report of the committee chaired by Sir David Serpell.

Mr. Eyre

About 300.

46. Mr. Alton

asked the Secretary of State for Transport when he next intends to meet the British Railways Board to discuss the Serpell report.

Mr. David Howell

I refer the hon. Member to the reply I gave earlier today to the hon. Member for Sheffield, Hillsborough (Mr. Flannery).