78. Mr. Vaneasked the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation what improvements in the rural transport system he has been able to effect since he made his statement on 24th April, 1956; and whether he will make a further statement.
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§ Mr. WatkinsonBritish Railways have introduced a number of new diesel services, and many more are planned. In addition, the British Transport Commission are ordering 22 light weight diesel rail buses, for delivery in 1957 and 1958, for experimental use in rural areas in the Eastern, London Midland, Scottish and Western Regions. During recent months bus services generally have, of course, been slightly affected by rationing, but since the beginning of this month bus operators have been receiving normal supplies of motor fuel. I hope that the book "Village Bus" which we published last autumn will help rural communities to solve their transport problems.