42. Sir F. HALLasked the Minister of Transport if he will consider setting up a committee to inquire into the financial conditions under which railways and road transport systems operate, particularly as regards the extent to which they are respectively called upon to contribute to national and local expenditure, and to advise whether, in the national interest, some readjustment should be made as regards the burdens and disabilities to which railway transport is subjected?
§ Mr. PARKINSONThe subject to which the hon. and gallant Member refers was examined in its wide aspect by the Royal Commission on Transport and their observations and recommendations are now receiving my right hon. Friend's consideration.
Sir F. HALLAre the Government contemplating any alteration in regard to the rating of the railway companies owing to their depressed condition and the large amount of money invested in them by all classes?
§ Mr. PARKINSONI cannot say what the Government are contemplating, but the whole circumstances are receiving consideration.