HC Deb 22 November 1939 vol 353 cc1209-10
39. Mr. Walkden

asked the Minister of Transport whether, in view of the difficulty in reaching agreement with the railway companies as to financial terms for the present period of State control, and the possibility of the war with Germany being protracted, he is considering the desirability of nationalising the railways in order to avoid disputes, such as were dealt with by the Colwyn Royal Commission after the last war, and immediately to ensure complete unification and simplified working of the railways under a single board that would be directly responsible to the Minister?

The Minister of Transport (Captain Wallace)

No, Sir. I have every hope that it will prove possible to reach agreement on the terms of compensation to the railways and the present arrangements secure, through the Railway Executive Committee, the necessary unification in operation under war conditions.

Mr. Poole

May I ask what body is considering the claims, if any, from the railway companies and who is adjudicating on the claims?

Captain Wallace

It is not a question of a body considering the claims. The matter is one for negotiation between His Majesty's Government and the companies.

Mr. Poole

In the event of their failing to reach an agreement, what steps are they proposing to take?

Captain Wallace

I do not like jumping a fence before I come to it.