§ Mr. RedmondTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport what action he intends to take in respect of the proposal of the European Economic Community transport commissioners for high-speed rail links from Glasgow, Edinburgh and Cardiff via London through the Channel tunnel to western Europe; what discussions he has with the Community of European Railways in respect of all these proposals; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. PortilloI assume that the hon. Member is referring to the proposals recently published by the Community of European Railways. We are not aware of any proposals by the European Commission. It is for British Rail to bring forward any proposals for further investment which it considers appropriate in the light of the CER report. The Government are always happy to approve proposals by British Rail for rail investment which is commercially justified.
§ Mr. RedmondTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport what is the expected cost to public funds of the northern Europe sub-committee of the Planning Board for European Inland Surface Transport at the civil defence college this spring; and what subjects will be discussed.
§ Mr. PortilloNo additional staff costs will be incurred. Expenses to be incurred against public funds are expected to be about £900. Details of the proceedings are classified.