Colonel NEWMANasked the Prime-Minister whether the joint control of the railway systems of this country by the State and those working on the railways has been, or is shortly to be, discussed by the Government and leaders of organised labour; and, if so, if the owners of the properties involved will be consulted' before a decision is arrived at?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWThe National Union of Railwaymen put forward a proposal which the Prime Minister described in reply as involving nationalisation and joint management and which therefore is impossible during the two years of Government control which is provided for in the Ministry of Transport Bill. The Government have, however, decided that 923W it is necessary to have a Railway Committee to take the place of the present Executive Committee for the purpose of giving advice to the Government on matters affecting the interests of the railway and the State in relation to the railways, and the Government will be glad to see one or two railway workers appointed members of this Committee.