HC Deb 09 June 1971 vol 818 cc1036-7
32. Mr. Spriggs

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment whether he intends to seek powers to negotiate reciprocal agreements with Common Market countries, should the United Kingdom enter the European Economic Community, for assisted road and rail fare schemes for retirement pensioners.

Mr. Peyton

No, Sir.

Mr. Spriggs

That is a most disappointing reply. In view of the negotiations now going on with the E.E.C., is it not a pity that Britatin will be left behind the other countries of the Community? As there are literally hundreds of thousands of pensioners in this country who are prisoners in their own homes, would it not be a good idea if the right hon. Gentleman were to give this question more careful thought and return to the House with a far more progressive reply?

Mr. Peyton

I am extremely sorry that the hon. Gentleman is so disappointed with what was a predictable answer. The question of concessionary fares within this country is for the local authorities and the carriers concerned. In the rest of his supplementary question the hon. Gentleman allowed his thought to become tinged by the hypothetical.