HC Deb 16 July 1941 vol 373 c595
41. Mr. Silkin

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of War Trans port whether the terms of the railway agreement have now been settled and agreed; and whether he will cause such terms to be published and made available to the public?

The Joint Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of War Transport (Colonel Llewellin)

No, Sir. When the terms of the modified agreement have been settled, a statement will "be made to the House.

Mr. Silkin

Is the right hon. and gallant Gentleman aware that these negotiations have been going on for nearly two years? Is it not time that an agreement was concluded?

Colonel Llewellin

That is not quite accurate. There was one agreement, but in virtue of the Government's decision not to allow an increase of railway fares and freight rates, a modified agreement has now become necessary. Negotiations have not been going on for two years.

Mr. Silkin

There never has been a final agreement. Is it not time that the country knew the terms on which they have taken over the railways?

Mr. Watkins

Will the right hon. and gallant Gentleman take into consideration the urgent necessity, in order to promote the war effort, of co-ordinating road and rail transport under a single national authority?

Colonel Llewellin

That, of course, is quite a different matter.