§ Mr. J. H. Osbornasked the Minister of Transport how many railway depots in existence today are on grey line routes on the basic railway network map; how many will be closed down by 1970, 1975 and 1980, respectively; and if she will list those she plans to close down by each date, respectively, as part of her plans for reorganising the railways.
§ Mr. John MorrisThe number of depots on grey line routes is not readily available. This information would not in fact be of particular significance in considering the arrangements for the handling of freight. The Railways Board do not require my right hon. Friend's consent to close depots and it is for them to plan how to reorganise and rationalise their system so as best to meet future 209W requirements. I understand from them that they cannot forecast the numbers to be closed in future years.