§ Dr. Marekasked the Secretary of State for Transport what is the minimum size of investment proposals by British Rail which require specific authorisation by his Department: and what criteria are used in assessing the proposals.
§ Mr. David MitchellBy arrangement with the Railways Board, it is open to my right hon. Friend to call in any of the board's projects or programmes for specific authorisation. Normally only a sample from among those schemes costing over £5 million are called in. In considering proposals, my right hon. Friend has regard to the Government's transport and other relevant policies, and aims to satisfy himself that the investment appraisal demonstrates that the project is justified financially and in relation to business requirements.
§ Dr. Marekasked the Secretary of State for Transport what discussions are taking place between his Department and British Rail on the inter-city major strategic review of its markets, pricing policy, resource and investment needs: and when he expects them to be completed.
§ Mr. David MitchellDiscussions are proceeding at official level. I understand that the Railways Board hopes to complete its review of inter-city strategy early in the new year.