Brussels, 13/02/2002 (Agence Europe) - The Commission has approved aid granted by the United Kingdom to the track maintenance company Railtrack, to enable it to assume the continuity of the service for the duration of its being placed under administration. The aid of 8.78 billion euro (£5.42 billion) was granted in the form of a loan, that may be transformed into a State guarantee. According to the Commission, it meets the criteria of guidelines on aid to rescue and restructuring as it is necessary to ensure the supply of a rail service, is granted at market rates and will be refunded to the government. "Having regard to the exceptional circumstances", the Commission authorised the extension of the aid: initially authorised for six months from 7 October 2001, date when Railtrack was placed under administration, the aid may be authorised until August.