§ Mr. Haselhurstasked the Secretary of State for Transport what discussions he has had with the British Airports Authority about disposal of their landholdings in the safeguarded area around Stansted airport; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Michael SpicerThe BAA has submitted proposals for a reduction in the area of safeguarded land at Stansted and I am considering these with my ministerial colleagues in the Department of the Environment. I expect to announce details of the new safeguarded area shortly; BAA will then dispose of land outside that area.
§ Mr. Haselhurstasked the Secretary of State for Transport if he will make a statement on the proposals he has received from British Rail concerning a rail link to Stansted airport and on progress with their considerations.
§ Mr. David MitchellThe British Railways Board submitted an investment proposal last November for a double track spur from the Liverpool street-Cambridge line to a new station to be constructed beneath the new airport terminal building. The board believes such a link would be financially justified. My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State and I are now considering the proposal and will reach a decision as soon as possible.