§ 33. Mr. A. Robertsasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will introduce legislation to provide more accountability to the House of Commons by the nationalised industries.
§ Mr. BarberNo, Sir. The Government are satisfied that present arrangements provide sufficient accountability.
§ Mr. RobertsDoes the hon. Gentleman appreciate that the nationalised industries, particularly the railways, have squandered thousands of pounds on capital ventures that have later been abandoned? Will he have investigations made into the preparation of railway sidings near Leeds, costing thousands of pounds, only for the scheme to be abandoned?
§ Mr. BarberI am sure that my right hon. Friend the Minister of Transport would be only too pleased to consider the criticism that the hon. Gentleman has made.
§ Mr. RobertsIs the Financial Secretary aware that I cannot put the Question to the Minister of Transport?
§ Mr. BarberBut the hon. Gentleman knows perfectly well that he is able to write to my right hon. Friend who, I am sure, would be happy to look into the matter.