HC Deb 22 March 2000 vol 346 c547W
Mr. Tony Lloyd

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what progress has been made in respect of the Manchester Metrolink light rail scheme; and if he will make a statement. [116206]

Mr. Prescott

Following the announcement in the Budget of an extra £280 million for transport spending, we intend to provide funding for the three extensions to the Manchester Metrolink for which Manchester Passenger Transport Authority has sought public funding. This is subject to formal completion of the project appraisal and agreement of the overall funding package. We expect that package to include a local contribution to the costs of the scheme. I shall make further announcements about the other elements of our package of additional transport spending shortly.