§ 83. Mr. Popplewellasked the Minister of Transport if, in view of the importance railways have proved to the life of the nation in the severe weather conditions, he will take steps to provide that no railway branch line may be closed except under the authority of a Statutory Instrument subject either to affirmative or negative procedure in Parliament.
§ Mr. H. Hyndasked the Minister of Transport whether he will reconsider 167W his policy on the closure of certain railway lines in view of experience gained this winter, when railways were the only means of access to some towns and villages.
§ Mr. MarplesThe Transport Act, 1962, lays down the procedure to be followed in effecting railway closures. When considering whether to consent to a particular passenger closure, I shall examine all relevant information.