67. Mr. G. Wilsonasked the Minister of Transport what are the arrangements referred to in paragraph 187 of the Second Annual Report of the Transport Commission whereby certain coal traffics, rail conveyed for relatively short distances, are carried at rates below those applicable to land sale tonnage.
§ Mr. BarnesThe traffic referred to was export coal moved to ports over distances less than the average for landsale traffic. The rates were less than the average for landsale traffic because the distances were less and, possibly, because of the existence of exceptional rates, the granting of which is a matter for the British Transport Commission, subject to the approval of the Transport Tribunal in certain cases.
§ Mr. BarnesNo, Sir, I do not think so. The hon. Member is quite well aware of the general circumstances that prevail in dealing with traffics of this kind.
§ Mr. HarrisonIs my right hon. Friend aware that export coal traffic is one of the most valuable traffics that British Railways have, and that preferential rates are very often granted because of long-distance haulage?
§ Mr. McAddenIn view of the recent statement by the Minister of Fuel and Power, are we to understand that this form of traffic will in future cease?
§ Mr. BarnesNot at all.