§ Mr. CryerTo ask the Secretary of State for Employment what is the total cost of the study on the Settle-Carlisle corridor by J. Jarvis and Sons plc; who is funding the study and by what amount in addition to the Manpower Services Commission; whether J. Jarvis and Sons plc was chosen by competitive tender for the task; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. LeeThe feasibility study on the Settle-Carlisle corridor followed discussions between the Ribblesdale trust, J. Jarvis and Sons plc and MSC. The study is being jointly funded by MSC and J. Jarvis. The total cost will be in excess of £10,000 to which MSC is contributing £5,000, the balance being met by J. Jarvis.
The purpose of the study is to see what opportunities there are to mount projects in the area whether under the community programme or other programmes. Once the study has been completed MSC will decide which if any of the projects will be undertaken and will invite a range of sponsors to discuss how those projects can best be taken forward.
In view of the interest of the hon. Member I have asked officials from my regional office in Leeds to meet with him to inform him of progress on the study.