HC Deb 05 May 1993 vol 224 cc154-5W
Mr. Harvey

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport if he will make a statement about the future funding of the Exeter to Barnstaple railway line.

Mr. Freeman

Services which meet an essential social need will continue to receive a subsidy where necessary. This applies whether the operator is a franchisee or BR, which will continue to operate services until they are franchised.