HC Deb 04 May 1966 vol 727 cc1601-2
32. Mr. Strauss

asked the Minister of Transport if she will give particulars of the structure and purpose of the proposed National Freight Authority.

Mrs. Castle

My purpose is to create a first-rate, expanding freight service, based on the integration of traffic by road and rail in the public sector, which will help to make full use of our railway services. I will explain my proposals in more detail in the forthcoming White Paper on transport policy.

Mr. Strauss

Does my right hon. Friend appreciate that it is very tantalising to have this important announcement made some time ago and then have to wait months to find out what she has in mind? Would what she proposes involve legislation? If so, is there any chance of having that legislation this Session?

Mrs. Castle

As my right hon. Friend knows, we are committed—this was in our election manifesto—to amending the Transport Act, 1962, but whether that can be managed this Session is, I should have thought, extremely unlikely.

Mr. Peter Walker

Would the Minister confirm that it will not be a case of British Railways offering lower rates when working in conjunction with the transport holding company than when they are working in conjunction with private hauliers?

Mrs. Castle

The hon. Gentleman had better wait for the White Paper.

Mr. Bagier

Is my right hon. Friend aware of the alarming number of goods sidings, depôts and marshalling yards being closed down under the authority of the 1962 Act? Will she ensure that British Railways do not close down too many, so that when traffic increases they will be able to handle it?

Mrs. Castle

It is true that the British Railways Board is currently carrying out some rationalisation of its freight services. Some of these will be necessary, even with the setting up of the National Freight Authority, but I am already discussing the details of my proposals with the Railways Board and the other transport undertakings involved. The Railways Board is aware of the implications of my policy, and I am sure that it will bear them in mind.

Mr. Galbraith

Has the right hon. Lady any idea how many more officials will be required and how much the Authority will cost? Is this just another attempt to frustrate private enterprise and to control everything from the centre?

Mrs. Castle

The hon. Gentleman is asking for details which are clearly only appropriate to the White Paper.