HC Deb 25 March 1993 vol 221 cc707-8W
Ms Ruddock

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport (1) what cost benefit analysis was made in respect of Thameslink 2000; and to what extent the benefit to cost ratio would be changed by a decision not to proceed with a low level station at King's Cross;

(2) when the plans and all planning applications for Thameslink 2000 were finalised; and when an application for a ministerial order under the new Transport and Works Act 1992 procedures was ready to be lodged;

(3) if he will make funds available to allow work on Thameslink 2000 to proceed.

Mr. Freeman

It is for British Rail to appraise the project and to consider the implications of alternative options for a new Thameslink station at King's Cross. The decision that, subject to the results of further work, the channel tunnel rail link should terminate at St. Pancras does not preclude construction of a low-level station at King's Cross.

The preparation and submission of an application under the Transport and Works Act procedures is a matter for BR. No application in respect of any element of Thameslink 2000 has been received.

As announced by my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State on 22 March, British Rail will be undertaking further work, within its existing resources, on options for developing Thameslink services.