HC Deb 14 February 1973 vol 850 cc1280-1
30. Mr. Alfred Morris

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment whether he will give a general direction to British Railways that when they dispose of surplus property they should give the appropriate local authority the opportunity to acquire the property at valuation.

Mr. Peyton

No, Sir.

Mr. Alfred Morris

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that deep concern has been expressed in the Manchester area about the disposal by British Railways of the city's Central Station? By which company was this property acquired, and at what price? If it has already been re-sold, at what price was it re-sold and at what profit? Will the right hon. Gentleman ensure that there is a full inquiry into this disquieting affair? Will he agree that we must break down the wall of secrecy surrounding these deals affecting the disposal of public property for private profit?

Mr. Peyton

I can assure the hon. Gentleman that there is no veil of secrecy. As far as I am concerned the nationalised industries are encouraged to behave in a commercial manner.

Mr. Charles R. Morris

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware of a Press report saying that this public property was resold for a reported profit of £1 million within weeks of its purchase from British Railways? Is he satisfied with the valuation advice received by British Railways about this?

Mr. Peyton

I was asked the general question—

Mr. George Thomas

Answer the question.

Mr. Peyton

The right hon. Gentleman advises me to answer the question. I can recollect occasions when he managed to avoid doing so. The hon. Gentleman has now drawn to my attention a particular case and I will gladly look into it.

Mr. Bradley

Will the hon. Gentleman confirm or deny that it has ceased to be a matter of general policy that local authorities are given the first option to buy from British Railways when they are disposing of property?

Mr. Peyton

That has not ceased to be a matter of general practice. It is still the practice for nationalised industries with surplus land to give local authorities the first opportunity of buying it.

Mr. Alfred Morris

On a point of order, Mr. Speaker. In view of the unsatisfactory nature of that reply I give notice that I shall seek to raise this matter on the Adjournment at the earliest possible date.