§ 43. Sir G. Nabarroasked the Secretary of State for the Environment what estimate he has made of the cost of subsidy to British Rail for the year 1973–74, in respect of railway routes to be kept open and operational as socially and economically desirable, though failing to pay their way; what comparisons he made thereby with the figure for 1971–72; and what application has been received from British Rail, and what estimate he has made of the cost of keeping open the main line, Oxford, Evesham, Worcester, Malvern, Hereford, Western Region, compared with 1971–72.
§ Mr. PeytonFor passenger services in 1973, about £75 million—about 10 per cent. more than for 1971. For services grant-aided on the Oxford-Hereford line, £565,000—about 35 per cent. more than for 1971.