Thomas Cook and Son Ltd.

HC Deb 24 January 1968 vol 757 cc130-1W

Mr. Bradley

asked the Minister of Transport if she will make a statement on the future of Thomas Cook and Son.

Mrs. Castle

Thomas Cook and Son Ltd. are a valuable national asset which must continue to be maintained and vigorously developed. I have every confidence in the ability and determination of the Company's Chairman, his Board and staff to do this. The transfer of most of the Transport Holding Company's other existing assets to the new bodies to be set up as a consequence of the proposals in the Transport Bill now before the House may, however, later make it desirable to make new arrangements for the continued control in the public sector of the Holding Company's holdings in Thomas Cook. This is under consideration.