asked the Secretary of State for Transport what is the total authorised level of investment for British Rail over the next five years; and how this compares with the period 1974 to 1979.

The British Railways Board's 1984 corporate plan includes a five-year investment programme from 1985–86 worth £2·2 billion (at 1984–85 prices). Individual schemes are authorised as they reach an appropriate stage. During the five years from 1974 to 1978 inclusive, BRB invested £903 million, which is equivalent to £2·08 billion at 1984–85 prices.

asked the Secretary of State for Transport when he next expects to meet the chairman of British Rail to discuss future investment.

I frequently meet the chairman of British Rail to discuss matters of mutual interest.