§ Mr. Soamesasked the Secretary of State for Transport what account he took of the programme for the completion of the north terminal at Gatwick in setting the external financing limit for the British Airports Authority for 1986–87.
193W
§ Mr. RidleyThe British Airports Authority's external financing limit of £15 million for 1986–87 was decided last September. It took account of the authority's forecasts of its capital requirements and internal resources, and was thought sufficient to allow the authority to complete Gatwick north terminal in summer 1987, and make good progress on other major projects. The authority has since reduced its forecasts of internal resources and as a result has decided to delay the opening of the Gatwick north terminal. It is for the authority to order its investment priorities. The authority still expects the new terminal to be completed in time for the 1988 summer season.