§ Mr. DarlingTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport what steps he is taking to ensure that sufficient investment is provided for a fast rail link to be constructed between Heathrow and central London; when he expects it to be open for business; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. FreemanA total of 80 per cent. of the funding for the Heathrow express will be provided by the British Airports Authority (BAA), the remaining 20 per cent. by British Rail (BR). The timing of BR's contribution is a matter for the board. The expected date of opening of the Heathrow express is now November 1995. This delay is principally attributable to additions agreed with petitioners when the Heathrow Express Railway Act was considered in Committee.