HC Deb 24 June 1924 vol 175 cc234-5
68. Mr. GILBERT

asked the Minister of Transport if he will state, approximately, how much of the £60,000,000 granted in 1921 to the railway companies still remains unspent by them on repairs and replenishment of rolling stock, per- manent way, and other works for which the money was granted; and what action his Department has taken in order that the companies should put all necessary work in hand at once?

Mr. GOSLING

The hon. Member will Observe from Section 11 (4) of the Railways Act, 1921, of which I am sending him a copy, that the lump sum of £60,000,000 may be applied in such manner and in such proportion and at such time or times as the directors of the companies concerned may determine. I am not in a position to give the figures for which he asks. With regard to the latter part of the question, the Government have discussed with the companies the question of the works of all kinds which could be undertaken by them at the present time or in the near future.

Mr. GILBERT

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that the railway companies, in their annual balance-sheet, show the balance of this amount that they still have in hand?

Viscount EDNAM

Could the hon. Gentleman find out, for the information of the House, how much of this money has been spent?

Mr. SPEAKER

That question had better be put on the Paper.