§ 7.6 p.m.
§ [The question was as follows:
§ To ask His Majesty's Government, if it is correct that, in connexion with their policy of acquisition of transport and allied undertakings, precautions are to be taken to protect the acquiring authority against any transactions which may prejudice them; will His Majesty's Gov- 206 ernment undertake to indemnify third parties who have entered in good faith into contracts or agreements with the businesses acquired from loss resulting from any cancellation of contracts or agreements.]
§ LORD WALKDENMy Lords, the answer to the first part of the noble Lord's question is this. The Government will take precautions in its legislation to protect the acquiring authority against any transactions entered into in the interim period, whether by way of contract or otherwise, which may prejudice that authority. As regards the second part of the question, the noble Lard will, of course, appreciate that I cannot anticipate the terms of legislation yet to be introduced into Parliament, but I do not consider that it would be practicable to give an indemnity of the kind suggested.
LORD SALTOUNMay I ask whether it will not, therefore, he necessary to make arrangements to enable the businesses affected to consult the proper Departments with regard to their own future arrangements for contracts which affect their businesses and as to whether or not they will be liable to repudiation, and to obtain quick decisions? Another thing which arises is whether these arrangements which arc liable to repudiation will involve those ex-Servicemen who have a right of reinstatement in the business which they left before the war.
§ LORD WALKDENI am afraid I cannot add much to the assurance I have already given, but I assure the noble Lord that the points he has raised will be placed before the Department.
§ House adjourned at eight minutes past seven o'clock.