HC Deb 31 July 1963 vol 682 c444
11. Mr. Mapp

asked the Minister of Transport, in exercise of his financial powers under the Transport Act, what amount he has authorised to the Railways Board for the provision of liner trains; and what is the expected profitability of the investment he has allowed for this purpose.

Mr. Galbraith

The Railways Board has not yet sought our approval for any proposed capital investment in the provision of liner train equipment.

Mr. Mapp

Is the Parliamentary Secretary aware that on pages 44 and 146 of his Report, Dr. Beeching contemplated, I think within a few weeks, a trial costing £2,100,000? As some of the data and commercial prospects about liner trains are, to say the least, doubtful, will the Minister be careful in any finance which he may authorise in this respect and have some costings made of the existing Condor train services, the pre-runner to the liner trains?

Mr. Galbraith

I think I can give the undertaking that my right hon. Friend will look very carefully into any figures and costs put before him.