HC Deb 28 July 1971 vol 822 cc567-8
30. Mr. J. H. Osborn

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment what proposals he has now received from the Chairman of the British Rail Board to set up ticket and reservation shops or centres to sell air, sea and rail tickets; and what submissions have been made to him relating to the capital cost.

Mr. Peyton

None, Sir.

Mr. Osborn

Although I accept that British Railways must promote sales of railway tickets, will my right hon. Friend make clear to the Board that the policies which have been announced are inconsistent with Government policy?

Mr. Peyton

So far as I am aware, no policy has been announced. There may have been various speculations in the newspapers, but I am not responsible for them.

Mr. Bradley

Will the Minister confirm that this matter comes within the managerial competence of the British Railways Board and is not a matter for his interference?

Mr. Peyton

The hon. Gentleman puts his question in such a challenging way that if it were to come up I might be tempted out of my normal rôle and character of being very reasonable.