To ask the Minister of State, Department for Transport whether his agreement is required before the Tyne and Wear Metro concession is awarded. (306515)

Nexus, the Tyne and Wear Passenger Transport Executive, as the procuring authority, do not require the agreement of the Secretary of State to award a contract for the concession for the operation of the Tyne and Wear Metro. Nexus are, however, seeking the Department's commitment to provide funding support towards the operating costs of the Metro before they award such a contract.