§ Mr. McQuarrieasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what steps he proposes to take regarding the representations which have been made to him by the Grampian regional council on the proposals by British Railways to close the freight line between Fraserburgh and Dyce; and if he will give an assurance that British Railways will not be permitted to initiate closure proceedings until the fullest discussions have taken place between all interested parties who would be involved in the threatened closure.
§ Mr. RifkindIt is for the British Railways Board to decide whether to retain or close any particular freight line in the light of its commercial judgment. I understand that the board is discussing the Fraserburgh-Dyce line with interested parties and that no final decision has been taken. Grampian regional council asked my right hon. Friend to provide financial assistance for the improvements necessary to retain the line, but he has explained that he has no statutory power to do so.