HC Deb 22 February 1982 vol 18 c318W
Mr. Arthur Lewis

asked the Secretary of State for Transport whether he will give an estimate of the total cost to the economy of the train drivers' dispute with British Railways since its inception.

Mr. David Howell

British Rail has lost about £75 million as a result of ASLEF's industrial action, and some continuing loss of revenue must be expected. In addition, there have been costs to employers of working days lost or shortened, social costs to commuters and other rail travellers, and costs to BR's freight customers. It is too early to estimate the total cost to the economy as a whole.