§ 45. Mr. SMITHERSasked the Prime Minister what is the policy of the Government on the matter of granting State assistance in respect of the electrification of the railways?
§ The PRIME MINISTERThe problems, both technical and economic, raised by the recent report of Lord Weir's Committee require the consideration of the railway companies in the first instance. Meanwhile it would be premature for the Government to attempt to define its policy in the matter.
§ Mr. SMITHERSWill the Prime Minister set up a committee to inquire into this subject and advise the Government, as the Government have no policy of their own?
§ Mr. BROCKWAYIn considering giving any further status to railways, will the right hon. Gentleman consider laying down, as a condition, the payment of a living wage to railway workers?