§ 50. Mr. C. WHITEasked the Prime Minister whether, in the arrangements he is making with the railway companies to forward the construction and extension of railways, steps can be taken to push forward the construction of the Derwent Valley, Calver and Grindleford Railway, which was originally included in the North Western, Midland and Scottish 1178 Group in the Railway Bill of 1921; and whether he is aware that by the construction of this railway a great public service would be rendered to the community, a district rich in minerals opened up, which would provide permanent employment for a large number of men, and the construction of which would also find immediate-employment for the large number at present unemployed in that district?
§ Lieut.-Colonel ASHLEYI have been asked to reply. I am aware that the Derwent Valley, Calver and Bakewell Railway was originally included in the North Western and Midland Group proposed in the Railways Bill, 1921, but it was struck out in Committee. I am afraid I can give the hon. Member no information with regard to the intentions of the promoters of this scheme.
§ Mr. WHITEDoes not the hon. and gallant Gentleman think that this railway would provide work for the unemployed,, about whom the Government appear to be so anxious?
§ Lieut.-Colonel ASHLEYThe hon. Gentleman will appreciate the fact that this scheme was struck out by a Committee of this House.