§ 1. Sir Rolf Dudley Williamsasked the Minister of Transport what recent talks he has had with Dr. Beeching on transport problems.
§ The Minister of Transport (Mr. Tom Fraser)I am in frequent touch with Dr. Beeching on matters affecting the Railways Board.
§ Sir Rolf Dudley WilliamsIs the right hon. Gentleman quite certain that he knows the views of Dr. Beeching about the line from Salisbury to Exeter? Will he discuss this problem with the successor to Dr. Beeching before any final decision is made about the line?
§ Mr. FraserI have discussed a number of lines with Dr. Beeching, as is perfectly understandable, in different parts of the country. Before reaching my decision on any proposals that the Railways Board puts up, understandably I have discussions with the representatives of the Board.
§ Sir Rolf Dudley WilliamsWould the right hon. Gentleman say that he has in mind any intention of closing this line?
§ Mr. FraserClearly at this stage I cannot say whether I have any intention of closing any line anywhere in the country. I receive proposals from the Railways Board. The House is aware of the procedure which is gone through and at the end of it I make a decision. I cannot anticipate at the beginning of the procedure what my decision will be at the end of it.