§ Mr. Stewartasked the Minister of Transport when a final settlement is likely to be reached in regard to the compensation due to small road haulage firms which were taken over by the Transport Commission 18 months ago.
§ Mr. BarnesIt is not practicable to state by what date final settlements are likely to be completed in respect of small road haulage firms which have been taken over by the British Transport Commission. The speed with which compensation can be assessed depends to a large extent on the co-operation of the transferor who must furnish accounts and other necessary information concerning his past results up to the date of transfer. Final settlement of compensation due to small undertakings also depends on agreement being reached between the two parties; in the absence of agreement reference to the Transport Arbitration Tribunal is necessary. The British Transport Commission assure me that they have taken all possible steps within their control to expedite the settlement of compensation in respect of all road haulage concerns which they have taken over. If the hon. Member has any specific case in mind I would be glad to bring it to the attention of the Commission.