HC Deb 09 April 1973 vol 854 cc222-3W
Mr. David Price

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment to what extent it is possible for British Rail freight wagons and freight cars to run on the rail systems of the member countries of the EEC; how far it is possible for the freight wagons and freight cars of other EEC railways to run on the British rail systems; and what is his estimate of the capital cost of so modifying the British rail system to accommodate continental freight wagons and freight cars to run on the entire British rail system.

Mr. Peyton

British freight wagons can run over the Continental rail system provided they are air-braked and otherwise conform to agreed standard; EEC rolling stock can run here only if built within the restricted British loading gauge. The cost of modifying the British system would be very high.