§ 26. Mr. Butcherasked the Minister of Transport the composition and duties of the Railway Executive Committee?
§ Sir J. ReithThe Railway Executive Committee consists of Sir Ralph Wedgwood (Chairman), the general managers of the London and North Eastern, Great Western and Southern Railway Companies, the Vice-President of the Executive, London Midland and Scottish Railway, and the Chairman of the London Passenger Transport Board, with Mr. G. Cole Deacon as Secretary. The Minister of Transport appointed the Committee to be his agents for the purpose of giving directions under the Railway Control Order for the carrying on of the controlled undertakings and the disposition of their property, as provided in Regulation 69 of the Defence Regulations.
§ Mr. ButcherHave the boards of directors of the railway companies any functions to perform at the present time, and do they draw any fees?
§ Mr. ShinwellWhy does not the Minister consider putting a responsible official connected with the railway services on this Executive? Why should not the right hon. Gentleman infuse a little fresh blood into it?
§ Sir J. ReithI will consider infusing new blood if it is required, but with regard to the Railway Executive, I do not think it is.