HC Deb 21 February 1968 vol 759 cc414-5
34. Mr. Edward M. Taylor

asked the Minister of Transport when the major electrification scheme on British Railways, which was postponed as a result of the post-devaluation cuts, will now be carried out.

Mr. John Morris

I would refer the hon. Member to the answer given to the hon. Member for Bromsgrove (Mr. Dance) on 20th December last.—[Vol. 756, c. 408.]

Mr. Taylor

Would it not help the railways more to allow them to go ahead with this important scheme, rather than with the expensive nonsense of the Transport Bill?

Mr. Morris

We have made clear to the Railways Board where it stands with regard to this scheme, and I think that in the interests of the nation as a whole, and British Railways in particular, it will welcome the Transport Bill.

Mr. Ronald Atkins

Is my hon. Friend aware that the electrification of this line will do a tremendous amount to carry forward to success the Government's regional policies?

Mr. Morris

Yes, obviously this scheme is very important, and, in due time, if the Board makes a fair proposal, we shall have to examine it against all the other considerations in the development of this part of the world.