§ Mr. FearnTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport what discussions he has had with British Rail management about reopening to passenger traffic lines now used only for freight traffic, or where the trackbed remains wholly or substantially intact; if he has discussed the case put by the Wealden line campaign for the reopening of the Lewes-Uckfield link; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. PortilloI am aware of the campaign to re-open the Lewes-Uckfield line. It is for the British Railways Board to decide on the re-opening of freight railway lines to experimental passenger services, as they are empowered to do under the Transport Act 1962 (Amendment) Act 1981, (the "Speller" Act).