HC Deb 03 March 1925 vol 181 cc212-3
60. Mr. POTTS

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he can state the annual subsidies contributed to railways of the United Kingdom for each of the years 1914 to 1924, inclusive?

Colonel ASHLEY

I have been asked to reply. I am not aware what the hon. Member may have in mind when he uses the term "subsidies," but the net cost of the railway agreements, under which the railways were guaranteed their net receipts (as defined) for the year 1913 during the. period of possession, may be estimated at between £155,000,000 and £160,000,000. These figures allow for the conveyance of all Government traffic at appropriate rates, and also include the lump sum payments authorised by the Railways Act and the Irish Railways (Settlement of Claims) Act, 1921, which cannot be apportioned to particular years.

Mr. H. WILLIAMS

Has the right hon. Gentleman any knowledge of the value of the services rendered to the State by the railway companies during that period?

Colonel ASHLEY

That must be a matter of opinion.