§ Mr. John Townendasked the Secretary of State for Transport if he has now received the report of Sir David Serpell's committee on the review of rail finances; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. David HowellI have now received the committee's advice. There is a majority report, and in addition a minority report by Mr. Goldstein. In accordance with the terms of reference, the committee investigated fully the improvements in efficiency which would secure better financial results, and has illustrated a wide range of options for alternative longer-term policies, but have not made recommendations. The chairman of the Railways Board and I will now be studying the reports urgently.