§ 54. Mr. H. Hyndasked the Minister of Transport what expense allowance will be available for the new Chairman of the Railways Board; and whether the post will be pensionable.
§ Mr. MarplesThe British Transport Commission's present procedure in making expence allowances will apply to Dr. Beeching whilst he is a member and, later, Chairman of the Commission. In considering the appropriate provision under forthcoming legislation, I shall take account of existing procedure. I shall also have to consider making the appropriate provision for pensions for the Chairman and full-time members of the new Railways Board. Dr. Beeching's pension provision will, in the special circumstances of his appointment, remain the responsibility of Imperial Chemical Industries Limited.
§ 58. Mr. H. Hyndasked the Minister of Transport what consequential arrangements will be made for the salaries of other members of the Railways Board to preserve a reasonable relationship with the salary of the new Chairman.
§ Mr. MarplesThe salary of the new Chairman will be an exceptional salary payable to a particular person for a special task. I do not therefore envisage any consequential effects on the general level of salaries.