38. Mr. Hisģģsasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of War Transport what steps he is taking to extend the electrification of main line railways after the war.
§ Mr. Noel-BakerThe extension of electrification to the main line railways is a matter which my noble Friend will consider in relation to post-war development. It is, I understand, already under examination by the railway companies themselves.
Mr. HisģģsIs the hon. Gentleman aware of the vast amount of replacement which will be necessary immediately after the war, and that an exceptional opportunity will arise for electrification? Is he, furthermore, aware that coal consumption will be reduced by more than 50 per cent.?
§ Mr. Noel-BakerI should not like to accept the last figure without examination, but a great deal of work on the subject has been done, and we are well aware of the opportunities of which the hon. Member speaks.
§ Sir F. SandersonWill the hon. Gentleman see to it that reasonable and adequate allowances are made for depreciation, so that the necessary funds may be built up to enable companies to electrify their lines?
§ Mr. Noel-BakerThat is another question. Perhaps the hon. Gentleman will put it on the Paper.