HC Deb 19 May 1976 vol 911 cc538-9W
Mr. Ronald Atkins

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment what action he has taken to discourage the closure of private sidings.

Dr. Gilbert

Private sidings are the responsibility of the railways' customers. Their provision or closure reflects changes in customer requirements and in the pattern of rail freight movement. Grants are available under Section 8 of the Railways Act 1974 towards capital expenditure needed to modernise or install them.