Oral Answers to Questions Debate

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Department: Department for Transport

Oral Answers to Questions

Bob Blackman Excerpts
Thursday 30th March 2017

(7 years, 7 months ago)

Commons Chamber
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Paul Maynard Portrait Paul Maynard
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This is not being delayed until the new franchise. It will happen very soon. As I explained in my answer to an earlier question, we have received a proposal for new carriages from Southeastern. We have only had it a week and we are looking at it now. We want things to happen as soon as possible.

Bob Blackman Portrait Bob Blackman (Harrow East) (Con)
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The long-promised extension of the Metropolitan line from Croxley Green is running into financial difficulties. What assessment has my right hon. Friend made of the project, and what discussions have taken place with the Mayor of London and Transport for London?

Lord Grayling Portrait Chris Grayling
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The basis of this project was that Hertfordshire County Council and the Department for Transport provided money to TfL for the extension work. The agreement was that TfL would meet any costs above the agreed price, and would retain any funds below the agreed price. That agreement was reached a couple of years ago. Quite a chunk of money has already been spent, including on the acquisition of a train. It is for the Mayor to complete this project, and I have asked him for his plans to do so.