HC Deb 25 June 1956 vol 555 c19
29. Mr. Dye

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will make a statement on the future of the Wissington light railway.

Mr. Amory

Yes, Sir. This light railway with 18 miles of line was first requisitioned and later bought after the war by the Minister of Agriculture. It has been administered by my Department on a temporary basis, but I can no longer justify this arrangement. The National Farmers' Union, which is representing the interests of the growers concerned, has been told that this arrangement must end in a year's time. A meeting has been arranged with growers and they will be given the first opportunity to take over the Ministry's interest.

Mr. Dye

But why has the Minister offered the line to local farmers? Why has he not offered it to British Railways, without which it cannot run? If British Railways are not prepared to take it, why, in view of the fact that this railway has been making a profit, does he not ask the Wissington light railway to take over British Railways?

Mr. Amory

I will gladly offer the hon. Member the chance of coming in on the ground floor on this occasion.

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