§ 25. Mr. Michael McNair-Wilsonasked the Secretary of State for the Environment how many proposals for the closure of unprofitable railway lines he has under consideration.
§ Mr. MulleyNone, Sir.
§ Mr. McNair-WilsonWhen the Prime Minister and the Leader of the House talk about railway closures as being one way by which British Rail can balance their books in the future, what lines have they under consideration?
§ Mr. MulleyIt is for the British Railways Board to propose the withdrawal of services where it thinks that is justified. There are statutory procedures to be followed, and then I have to decide whether to consent to the proposals. As I have said, I have no such outstanding proposals before me at present, and I am not aware of any such proposals emanating from the board.