§ Mr. Heathcoat Amoryasked the Minister of Transport whether he is aware that certain districts in Devon were without train services for two days during Christmas, and in those areas where there is no bus service, this prevented families getting together for Christmas; and if he will ensure that in future, no such country district is without a train service for more than one day during the Christmas holiday period.
§ Mr. BarnesTraffic on a few branch lines in Devon had been so small on previous Christmas and Boxing Days that the railway companies decided that in view of the need to conserve fuel there72W was no justification for providing services. Christmastide services next year will be a matter for the British Transport Commission and I have drawn their attention to the hon. Member's question.