HC Deb 14 July 1982 vol 27 cc1019-20
4. Mr. Lennox-Boyd

asked the Secretary of State for Transport if he will make a statement on the consequences of prolonged industrial action to British Rail.

14. Mr. Cryer

asked the Secretary of State for Transport if he will make a statement on industrial relations on British Railways.

15. Sir David Price

asked the Secretary of State for Transport if he will make a statement about public investment in British Rail in the light of recent industrial disputes.

Mr. David Howell

I shall be making a statement later today about the current industrial action on the railways. But it is clear that strike action can only have the most damaging effects on the future prospects of the industry and its work force. The present strike is bleeding the industry of vital resources, which could be used for better and more modern equipment.

Several Hon. Members

rose—

Mr. Speaker

Perhaps hon. Members would prefer to be called to ask a question after the statement has been made. I shall call them then if they do not ask a question now. Hon. Members who are called now cannot expect to be called later.

Mr. Nicholas Winterton

Can my right hon. Friend confirm that prolonged industrial action will have a detrimental effect upon investment in further electrification and, what is more, could affect the private sector, in that such desirable projects as the Channel tunnel are unlikely to receive the Government's blessing because British Rail will not be in receipt of the infrastructure investment that is vital for that project? Does my right hon. Friend agree that that project would create substantial employment in all parts of the country and be beneficial to the regions?

Mr. Howell

Prolonged industrial action and strikes can do nothing but harm to all aspects of the railways' future.

Mr. Campbell-Savours

Now that the Leader of the Opposition is to meet Sir Peter Parker with the object of resolving the dispute, will the Prime Minister do likewise?

Mr. Robert Atkins

Is the Leader of the Opposition taking Sid Weighell with him?

Mr. Howell

Hon. Members should await my statement.