§ Mr. Skinnerasked the Secretary of State for Transport what was the cost to public funds of the studies undertaken by the accountants Peat Marwick Mitchell into the operation of British Rail.
§ Mr. David MitchellThree separate studies have been undertaken by Messrs. Peat Marwick Mitchell into different aspects of British Rail's activities at a total cost of £532,138.10, including VAT subject to audit.
§ Dr. Marekasked the Secretary of State for Transport if, in view of his statement of 14 November, Official Report, c. 594, that he had separated, in his consideration of the future role of British Railways, the issues of size of the network, fares and service standard levels and was concentrating on efficiency in running the railway, he will give specific examples of steps he has taken to promote such efficiency of running; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. RidleyThe Government set the objectives for BR. It is for the Railways Board to manage the railways so as to carry them through. Consequently, it is for the board to take the action which it regards as necessary to meet those Government objectives. We will continue to support the board's measures to improve efficiency, and in particular will welcome proposals for investment which help to meet the objectives we have set.