HC Deb 20 March 1919 vol 113 cc2226-7
52. Major NEWMAN

asked whether, without taking into consideration any further charges on revenue resulting from the demands for increased salaries, extra pay for overtime, and shorter working hours, he is now prepared to make a statement showing the net prospective loss of revenue for the current year on the rail way systems of the United Kingdom which may have to be met by the taxpayer?

Mr. BONAR LAW

I have nothing to add to the statement made by my right hon. Friend the Member for Cambridge on Tuesday last.

Major NEWMAN

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the railway managers themselves say that up to last year the Government were making a profit out of the railways? Is there a loss now?

Mr. BONAR LAW

That was indicated by my right hon. Friend. Up to the Armistice, owing to the large quantity of Government material carried, there was a loss.

Mr. G. TERRELL

Is the estimated deficit based on the continuance of the present 50 per cent. increase of passenger fares?

Mr. BONAR LAW

Yes; it is based upon conditions exactly as they exist now.