HC Deb 24 November 1971 vol 826 cc354-5W
46. Mr. Moyle

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment what grants he proposes to make available to British Rail, Southern Region, for its commuter services; and how these compare with the commuter grants which were previously withdrawn.

Mr. Peyton

Revenue grants will be paid to meet the difference between costs and earnings. Capital grants are available for worthwhile improvements to the system. Neither has been withdrawn.

57. Mr. Joel Barnett

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment to what extent, when considering applications submitted to him by British Rail for closures of passenger rail services on grounds of unprofitability, he takes into account recommendations from the appropriate passenger transport consultative committees that the services concerned are socially necessary.

Mr. Peyton

Fully, together with other relevant factors.

65. Mr. Gwynoro James

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment when he will announce his Department's decision on the continuation of grant-aided schemes for those uneconomic railway lines whose grant expires on 31st December, 1971.

Mr. Peyton

Early next year.

68. Mr. Wallace

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment what decisions have been taken regarding the future of the Norwich-Cromer and East Suffolk rail services.

Mr. Eldon Griffiths

To undertake to pay grant until the end of 1972; and, as with all grant-aided services, to keep them under continuing review.

69. Mr. David Stoddart

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will now prepare a transportation plan providing for increased use of railways for the carrying of passengers and freight, together with a policy of positive discouragement of transporting heavy loads for long distances by road.

Mr. Peyton

It is for the transport industry to develop in such a way as best meets the needs of its customers.

70. Mr. Spriggs

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment what representations he has received about the Government Grants (Infrastructure Grants) referred to in the Railway Gazette, October 1971, a copy of which is in his possession.

Mr. Peyton

The extension of the grant scheme has been generally welcomed.