HC Deb 18 February 1946 vol 419 cc766-7
14. Colonel Thornton-Kemsley

asked the Minister of War Transport if he has completed his examination of the principles on which transport charges should be based; and if he is prepared to adopt the principle of equalised rates of freight charges as a means of encouraging the economic rehabilitation of the country-side and the redistribution of industry.

Mr. Barnes

It must not be assumed that the principle which the hon. and gallant Member recommends would have all the beneficial consequences he suggests and, in any event, a fundamental alteration of the freight charges structure could only be effected after the reorganisation of transport which the Government intend to propose.

Colonel Thornton-Kemsley

Is the Minister aware that the Lord President of the Council informed me, in answer to a question on 1oth October last, that the right hon. Gentleman was examining this proposal? Will he endeavour to make an announcement in advance of the Government's nationalisation legislation?

Mr. Barnes

I am certainly examining this proposal and many others, but I do not intend to anticipate my legislative proposals.