§ 26. Mr. Ronald Atkinsasked the Secretary of State for Transport what representations he has received concerning the 193 unavailability of Section 8 grants for private sidings to British Railways in relation to their operation of Freightliners.
§ Mr. HoramThe chairman of British Rail has inquired about this, but we have received no other representations.
§ Mr. AtkinsDoes my hon. Friend agree that the absence of this grant will impose a difficulty on the railways when pursuing the policy which the Government advise, namely, bringing more goods on to the railways?
§ Mr. HoramOverwhelmingly, Freightliners and British Rail customers have taken advantage of this grant. It is not available to British Rail or to Freightliners now that it is to become part of British Rail. Freightliners has not made much use of it in the past. Since its customers can use it, the main purpose of the grant is achieved.