§ Mr. Pavittasked the Secretary of State for Transport (1) if he will make arrangements for full consultation with the local authorities concerned, and a public examination of the issues involved, if the proposals by British Rail to close Marylebone station and Wembley complex are implemented;
(2) if he will ensure that a public inquiry is held to consider the proposed closure of Marylebone station.
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§ Mr. David MitchellBritish Rail has initiated action under the statutory procedures laid down in the Transport Act 1962 and the London Regional Transport Act 1984 in respect of its proposal to close Marylebone station and the lines to Harrow and Northolt junction. Under those procedures, users of the services affected—and the local authorities who represent them — will have an opportunity to object to the London regional passengers' committee which will undoubtedly hold a public hearing before submitting its report to my right hon. Friend on any hardship it considers the closure would cause. The Transport Act 1968 requires that in deciding on a closure proposal, my right hon. Friend shall have regard to any matters which appear to him to be relevant, including social and economic considerations. We have no plans to substitute a non-statutory public inquiry for the passenger committees public hearing and the other statutory procedures approved by Parliament.