HC Deb 14 February 1985 vol 73 c254W
Mr. Gregory

asked the Secretary of State for Transport if he has any information as to the loss, in volume and sterling value, sustained by British Rail through the miners' dispute to the most recent date available; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. David Mitchell

British Rail estimates that to 9 February 1985 the dispute in the mining industry has reduced its freight receipts by £225 million and rail freight volume by about 70 million tonnes. This is bound to make it more difficult for British Rail to secure the future of its freight business and the jobs in it.