HC Deb 03 February 1966 vol 723 cc1270-1
23. Mr. Armstrong

asked the First Secretary of State and Secretary of State for Economic Affairs what steps he is taking to ensure that regional economic planning councils are giving consideration to the contribution to be made by railway services in the replanning of industry in areas where basic industries have declined; and if such consideration includes the power to recommend the re-opening, where necessary, of railways now closed.

The Under-Secretary of State for Economic Affairs (Mr. William Rodgers)

The councils already take into account these considerations and are not restricted in the recommendations they may make.

Mr. Armstrong

Is my hon. Friend aware that the success of the Government's policy in attracting new industry to these areas has made the decision of the last Administration in closing railways in my constituency quite out of date? Is he further aware that this is a very urgent matter because we are expecting the Government's policy to be even more successful?

Mr. Rodgers

Yes, we fully understand my hon. Friend's concern and we are fully aware of the important contribution which the railways can make to economic growth.

24. Mr. Rhodes

asked the First Secretary of State and Secretary of State for Economic Affairs what action he has taken to ensure that his plans for the economic development of central Scotland and north-east England are not impeded by the non-development of the east coast railway line connecting these areas, as proposed in Map No. 21 of the British Railways Board's publication, The Development of the Major Railway Trunk Routes.

Mr. William Rodgers

My right hon. Friend is aware of the Board's views and of the need to relate the future of this line to regional economic plans. The Scottish and Northern Economic Planning Councils will be watching the position.

Mr. Rhodes

Will my hon. Friend bear in mind that this railway line between Newcastle and Edinburgh links two vitally important and, we hope, expanding cities, and, in the opinion of many local people, the proposal of the Railways Board not to develop the line is in complete contradiction to the economic policies being pursued by the First Secretary of State?

Mr. Rodgers

We shall certainly bear in mind all opinions expressed in the regions.