Mr. W. A. JENKINSasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Labour if he is aware that certain railway projects have been mooted, particularly a railway from New Radnor, in Radnorshire, to Trawscoed, in Cardiganshire, provided Government financial assistance can be obtained; and, in view of the large measure of relief which such schemes would give to the great burden of unemployment, will the Cabinet Committee on Unemployment recommend the principle of giving financial assistance to such schemes?
§ Lieut.-Colonel MOORE-BRABAZONI have been asked to reply. I am aware of the proposals referred to. Certain railway developments have been undertaken by railway companies, with the assistance derived from the provisions of the Trade Facilities Acts, but I am not, in present circumstances, prepared to recommend that the form of assistance from public funds, for which the promoters stipulate in this case, should he granted to an amalgamated railway company. The hon. Member is no doubt 293W aware that Statutory powers must be obtained before this particular project could be put in hand.