HC Deb 13 July 1987 vol 119 c329W
Mr. Fearn

asked the Secretary of State for Transport what criteria he employs when deciding whether to reopen a rail link.

Mr. David Mitchell

It is for British Rail to consider the case for re-opening any rail link. Ministers would only wish to be involved in major investment proposals. As a general rule, we expect proposals for additions to the existing rail network to achieve at least a real return of 7 per cent. We would support any worthwhile investment which offered a sound prospect of improving the railways' finances.