HC Deb 05 February 1982 vol 17 c228W
Mr. Grylls

asked the Secretary of State for Transport if he will make a statement on his policy towards the introduction of private capital into parts of British Railways.

Mr. David Howell

The Government and the railways board agreed that first priority for the introduction of private capital should lie with the board's shipping, hovercraft, hotels and property interests. So far British Rail Hovercraft Ltd. and a number of British Transport Hotels have been transferred to the private sector. The railways board has also continued its policy of selling substantial amounts of non-operational property. I am currently awaiting further proposals from the board.