HC Deb 21 June 1920 vol 130 cc1717-8
21 Sir BURTON CHADWICK

asked the Minister of Transport (1) whether, in order to promote the utility of the Parliamentary discussion of the Estimates of his Department, he will circulate to Members of the House, before those Estimates are discussed, a draft of his proposals for dealing with the railways, so that they may have ample opportunity of carefully considering it;

(2) whether he expects to be able to recommend to Parliament this Session the future policy of his Department with regard to railways generally; and whether, in view of the economic and financial position of these undertakings, he can expedite his announcement?

Mr. NEAL

The Minister of Transport proposes to lay before the House a statement on the policy which the Government intends to submit to Parliament with reference to the future of railway undertakings, when the Estimates are discussed on Thursday next. I regret I am unable to accept the suggestions of my hon. Friend.

Sir B. CHADWICK

As these Estimates will come newly to many Members of this House, will there be another opportunity of discussing them?

Mr. NEAL

No doubt there will be many opportunities, as the policy will necessitate legislation.