§ Mr. David PorterTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport what representations he has had on the case for Stratford international passenger station being developed; what work his Department has done on the transport implications of such a station for Essex, Suffolk and Norfolk; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. FreemanMy right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Transport and I have received representations from the promoters of the station at Stratford, from Ipswich borough council and Norwich city council, and from a number of other organisations, individuals and hon. Members. The comparative analysis in Union Railways' October report includes forecasts of patronage at each prospective intermediate station on the rail link, taking into account likely origins and destinations and the results of detailed transport modelling. We are considering Union Railways' report, together with the representations received, and will announce our decisions shortly.