HC Deb 27 March 1968 vol 761 cc1533-4
13. Mr. Edward M. Taylor

asked the Minister of Transport what was the total sum spent by British Railways on the electrification programme in 1967, 1966, 1965 and 1964, respectively; and what is the anticipated capital spending on electrification in 1968.

Mr. John Morris

£6 million, £20 million, £20 million and £17 million, respectively. The budgeted figure for 1968 is £4 million.

Mr. Taylor

Is it not short-sighted to cut down so drastically on the electrification programme and at the same time to spend millions of pounds on further nationalisation? Can the hon. Gentle man say when he hopes that the electrification to Glasgow will be completed?

Mr. Morris

I thought that it was apparent to the hon. Gentleman that it is important that investment should be made in those portions of the railways which are justified. Secondly, it is also important that there should be the fullest possible examination of proposals. Thirdly, there is no proposal before the Minister concerning the electrification to which the hon. Gentleman refers. Fourthly, the hon. Member is well aware when a decision is likely.