§ Dr. Marekasked the Secretary of State for Transport if he will instruct British Rail to consult fully with all relevant bodies to produce an agreed plan to promote use of the Settle to Carlisle railway line.
§ Mr. David MitchellI shall of course want to see that all realistic options for the future of this line have been properly considered before I reach a decision; and I am sure that British Rail would be ready to discuss any such proposals the local authorities might put forward. But it would be inappropriate for me, in advance of reaching my decision, to give any directions to the Board.
§ Dr. Marekasked the Secretary of State for Transport if he will provide additional funding for relevant local authorities to promote the leisure use of the Settle to Carlisle railway line; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. David MitchellThis is normally a matter for local authorities to determine in the light of their priorities and the resources available to them.