§ Mr. Kirkwoodasked the Secretary of State for Transport if he will review the powers available to British Rail which enable it to withdraw sleeper services from the east coast route without ministerial authority.
§ Mr. David MitchellNo. My right hon. Friend's consent is required where there are objections to any proposals from BR for the withdrawal of all passenger services from a particular line or station. But whether or not to provide sleeper services is properly a commercial matter for British Rail.