HC Deb 08 March 1920 vol 126 cc901-2
56. Lieut.- Colonel W. GUINNESS

asked the Minister of Transport whether he can now state the cost to the public of the concession by which the Army when not travelling on duty receive their railway tickets under certain conditions for one-third of the rate payable by the general public?

Mr. NEAL

The difference between the money value of the concessional fares paid by officers and men of His Majesty's Army when travelling on leave, and the full public fares, is estimated by the Railway Executive Committee to have amounted in April of last year to £470,000 for the month. As demobilisation has proceeded, there has been a progressive decrease. In October the difference had fallen to £158,000, or 66 per cent. less than in April, and a further reduction has no doubt since occurred.

Lieut.-Colonel GUINNESS

As demobilisation is now practically at an end, is it proposed to finish this present arrangement and to return to the pre-War custom of paying ordinary rates?

Mr. NEAL

That is primarily a matter for the War Office. [HON MEMBERS: "No!"] I still think that it is primarily a matter for the War Office, Obviously the Minister of Transport would welcome anything which would increase the revenue of the railways.

Sir H. CRAIK

Is it the duty now of the Secretary of State for War to be the guardian of the public purse?

Mr. NEAL

Of all the Ministers of His Majesty's Government.

Sir F. BANBURY

Does not the Ministry of Transport fix the faros to be paid by people travelling?

Mr. NEAL

The Minister has power under the Act to fix the fares to be paid, but I think it will be realised that he would wish to act in consultation with the Secretary of State for War in a matter affecting the Army,

Sir F. BANBURY

Will the Minister consider the taxpayers who have to pay the difference?

Colonel YATE

I would like to ask the Secretary of State for War whether he will sec that officers are not deprived of this very small concession?

The SECRETARY of STATE for WAR (Mr. Churchill)

I will certainly do my best.

Sir S. HOARE

Is it not a fact that the Minister of Transport said last December that he was discussing the matter with the Chancellor of the Exchequer that he hoped to arrive at a. decision immediately 2 Has any decision been reached?

Mr. NEAL

Not yet.

Major Sir B. FALLE

Does the same apply to the Navy?