HC Deb 13 February 2001 vol 363 cc106-7W
21. Mr. Wilkinson

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions when he expects the public-private partnership for the modernisation of the London Underground to take effect. [148464]

Mr. Hill

My right hon. Friend the Deputy Prime Minister announced earlier this month that he had reached agreement with the Commissioner of Transport for London, Bob Kiley, that we will work together and with London Underground on modifications to the public-private partnership. If we can agree mutually acceptable changes, the PPP bidders will be asked to submit revised proposals.

The Government have not, and will not, set an artificial timetable for completion of the PPP as this would weaken our ability to ensure that it delivers the best deal for London.