§ Mr. CHIOZZA MONEYasked the Prime Minister if his attention has been directed to the fact that German producers already possess the advantage of cheaper railway rates than are available here; that Germany is now entering upon a vigorous policy of railway electrification; and that electrification will give, in addition to still lower railway rates, cheap supplies of light, heat, and power for industrial and social purposes; and if, in view of the increasing handicap which British producers and traders will soon suffer in these respects, he can say whether the question of railway nationalisation is engaging the attention of His Majesty's Government?
§ The PRIME MINISTERI understand that railway rates are to some extent lower in Germany than in this country, but it difficult to make an effective comparison. Steps are, I believe, being taken to equip portions of the German railways for electrical traction, but a cheap supply of electrical power for other industries does not necessarily depend on the electrical equipment of railways. I am unable to promise legislation with a view to railway nationalisation.