HC Deb 10 July 1989 vol 156 cc410-1W
Mr. Gerald Bowden

To ask the Secretary of Transport what representation he has had from British Rail regarding private sector involvement in the construction of the Channel tunnel rail links; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Portillo

The British Railways Board will report to me on its progress in securing private sector involvement in the rail link schemes.

31. Mr. Hind

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport if he has any plans to meet the chairman of British Rail to discuss direct passenger services from the north, north-west, midlands, south-west and Scotland to European destinations using the Channel tunnel; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Portillo

I have discussed these matters with British Rail which is still working on the plan which it is producing under section 40 of the Channel Tunnel Act.

35. Mr Rowe

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport whether he has made any progress with his plans to encourage participation by the private sector in British Rail's high-speed rail link; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Portillo

British Rail is currently discussing its proposals for the high speed rail link with a number of private sector interests.

48. Ms. Harman

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport when he next plans to meet the chairman of British Rail to discuss the rail link from the Channel tunnel.

Mr. Portillo

My right hon. Friend and I meet the chairman regularly to discuss a wide range of issues, including from time to time, the Channel tunnel rail link. Our next meeting is tomorrow.

49. Mr. Allen

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport how much Government investment is taking place this year in Nottinghamshire(a) on roads and (b) on rail.

Mr. Portillo

The Department's planned investment on roads in Nottinghamshire in the year 1989–90 is £14.806 million. This includes new construction, preparation of new schemes, maintenance on trunk roads and motorways and TSG support for county council schemes.

The Government do not invest directly in railways. British Rail cannot provide information on its investment on a county basis.