§ Mr. Beaumont-DarkTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport what is the latest position with regard to the appraisal of line 1 of the Midland Metro scheme proposed by the West Midlands passenger transport executive; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. FreemanConsiderable work has been done on the appraisal, which is further advanced than that for any other light rail scheme outside London currently being considered by the Department. The formal appraisal procedure is not yet complete. If it proves favourable, my right hon. and learned Friend the Secretary of State for Transport will be ready to consider paying development grant in 1991–92 under section 56 of the Transport Act 1968 towards the cost of preparing the scheme in greater detail so that the scheme itself may be considered for being funded in 1992–93.