HC Deb 17 January 1994 vol 235 cc414-5W
Mr. Bayley

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport (1) how many tonnes of freight were carried by BR's Railfreight distribution company in each of the last five years; and how much it is estimated will be carried in 1993–94, 1994–95 and 1995–96;

(2) how many tonnes of (a) coal, (b) petroleum, (c) metals and (d) construction materials were carried by BR's Trainload freight company in each of the last five years; and how much it is estimated will be carried in (i) 1993–94, (ii) 1994–95 and (iii) 1995–96.

Mr. Freeman

Historic data can be found in table 5.14 of "Transport Statistics Great Britain 1993", a copy of which has been placed in the Library. Traffic forecasts are a matter for BR.

Mr. Bayley

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport if his Department will seek to use freight facilities grant, or other grants, to ensure that fuel oil is once again carried from Stanlow to Aberystwyth by rail.

Mr. Freeman

If the company concerned felt that an application for freight facilities grant or the new track access grant, which will be available from 5 April, could be of assistance in returning this business to rail, I would be happy to consider it.