Crewe-Glasgow Line (Electrification)

Mr. Dempsey
asked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will now give a starting and completion date and the estimated cost of electrifying that stretch of British Railways lying between Crewe and Glasgow; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Peyton
The British Railways Board tell me that work has already started and that the target date for completion is May, 1974. The estimated cost, excluding the cost of locomotives, is £21·7 million.