HC Deb 09 April 1984 vol 58 cc11-2
12. Mr. Ron Lewis

asked the Secretary of State for Transport when he expects to receive British Rail's report on the future of British Rail Engineering Ltd.; and if he will publish it.

Mr. David Mitchell

We have asked British Rail to complete its review of BREL by the middle of the year.

Mr. Lewis

Will the hon. Gentleman give an absolute assurance that the Government will exercise no political pressure in favour of private companies when they are tendering with BREL for contracts on the railways?

Mr. Mitchell

I can give the hon. Gentleman that assurance. When BREL is in competition with the private sector for tendering, the procedures are absolutely fair and straightforward.