HC Deb 02 February 1987 vol 109 cc677-8
7. Mr. Roy Hughes

asked the Secretary of State for Transport if, when he next meets the chairman of British Rail, he will raise with him the proposed cutbacks in the freightliner network; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. David Mitchell

British Rail and its subsidiary, Freightliner Limited, decided to rationalise their business in the light of a careful assessment of Freightliner's long-term prospects. I deeply regret any consequent loss of jos.

Mr. Hughes

Why is British Rail always on the retreat, and why is it again putting Wales last in the queue for electrification? Why is it persisting in closing the Severn tunnel junction facilities, which are some of the best in the country and would be invaluable as a link-up with the proposed Channel tunnel project?

Mr. Mitchell

British Rail is not always on the retreat, as is well demonstrated by the Channel tunnel and the aggressive and commercial approach that British Rail has adopted to it. The House ought to commend Freightliner for coming to grips with a difficult problem and for taking the essential steps to protect the future of its business.

Mr. Anderson

Will the Minister undertake to look again at the case for closing the Freightliner depots in Wales, particularly in Swansea, as it smacks of short-termism at its worst and runs counter to regional policy and to preparing for the challenges of the Channel tunnel?

Mr. Mitchell

Since 1978 Freightliner has been required to pursue a commercial remit and it would not be right to expect it to do something that is not in the commercial interest of its business. Therefore, I have to decline the hon. Gentleman's request.

Mr. Robert Hughes

How can British Rail be planning to increase international freight traffic from the Channel tunnel by closing eight Freightliner depots, including the one in my constituency? Is there not some inconsistency in that?

Mr. Mitchell

The pattern of the Freightliner depots is not necessarily the pattern of the inland clearance depots, which will be the key part of its international traffic with the Channel tunnel. I have to say that we are seven years away from the tunnel, and those are loss-making areas that British Rail and Freightliner must ensure are operating in an economic way.