HC Deb 24 January 1949 vol 460 c542
10. Mr. Drayson

asked the Minister of Transport if he will give an assurance that compensation to road transport concerns is not governed by a sliding scale which gives greater benefits to large undertakings as compared with smaller firms.

Mr. Barnes

Yes, Sir.

Mr. Ernest Davies

Will the Minister also give an undertaking that in the event of the acquisition of these companies no more compensation will be given where they are acquired by negotiation than would be payable if they were compulsorily acquired under the Act?

Mr. Barnes

Complete accuracy cannot be determined, of course, if a business is acquired by voluntary agreement as against the process of arbitration which can be invoked, but nevertheless, as a general principle, I can give the hon. Member that assurance.

Mr. Drayson

Is the Minister aware that there was general concern among the small hauliers, who felt that they would be discriminated against as compared with the larger concerns, and that his reply will give considerable satisfaction?