§ Mr. Matthew BanksTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport what steps he is taking to ensure the future operation of Britain's steam railways following publication of the Railways Bill; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. FreemanThe Railways Bill contains powers for the Secretary of State to exempt railways individually or by class from the requirements for licensing, franchising and open access it imposes. The Government will grant appropriate exemptions to preserved railways, and will consult interested parties on the form of exemption.