§ Mr. Thurnhamasked the Secretary of State for Transport what is the current estimated cost of constructing a rail link to Manchester airport; if the funding has now been agreed; and when the work will commence.
§ Mr. David MitchellI understand that the latest estimated cost of the proposed rail link is about £15 million and that British Rail has agreed in principle with Greater Manchester Passenger Transport Authority and Manchester Airport plc on their share of the costs. It is for them to decide in the first instance on when the scheme could start.