§ Mr. Burtasked the Secretary of State for Transport whether he has considered the applications from the Greater Manchester passenger transport executive for a grant towards the cost of the proposed light rapid transit system; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. ChannonI have considered these proposals very carefully and sympathetically. The passenger transport executive has undertaken a substantial amount of work in preparing economic and financial appraisals and the results appear very promising. The forecast effects on public expenditure are nevertheless significant and I need to consider these further before taking a decision. In particular, I have asked my Department to explore with the PTA and PTE the scope for reducing the projected burden on the public purse through the involvement of private finance. I have asked for the necessary work to take place quickly and will make a further announcement as soon as possible.