To ask the Secretary of State for Transport when he received Merseytravel's submission for Government assistance in relation to the Mersey tunnel's debt issue; when Merseytravel is required to settle its budget and declare its levy; and if he will make a statement.

We received Merseytravel's submission for Government assistance on 28 November 1989, some two months later than expected. We have been considering it carefully. Merseytravel is due to set its budget on 14 February, and we hope to respond by then.