§ 18. Mr. Maclennanasked the Minister of Transport if he will make a statement about assistance from public funds as it affects the medium- and long-term future of the railway lines in the Highlands.
§ Mr. Michael HeseltineNo, Sir. My right hon. Friend is considering the future of unremunerative railway passenger services as part of his general study of the country's transport problems. It would be premature to make any firm statement at this stage about services in particular areas.
§ Mr. MaclennanThe Minister will realise that that is a disquieting reply and must cause considerable concern in Scotland, particularly in the Highlands, in view of the vital importance of maintaining lines which were threatened under the previous Conservative Administration by the proposals of Lord Beeching. Therefore, will the right hon. Gentleman give an assurance that there will be no removal of passenger or freight services until alternative transportation is available?
§ Mr. HeseltineI am aware that in the past five years twice as many railway lines were closed as in the preceding five years. Under the existing procedures every grant must be reviewed. I assure the hon. Gentleman that no changes will take place in Scotland, or in any other part of the country, without full consultation, and in Scotland without full consultation with my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State and appropriate Scottish bodies.