Mr. RobinsonTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport if he intends to give the British Railways Board the assurance proposed in the minute on the board's contingent liabilities laid before the House on 7 June. [34973]
§ Mr. WattsYes. The British Railways Board's annual report and accounts 1995–96 are due to be published shortly. Before British Rail's auditors can approve them on a going concern basis, they must be satisfied that adequate funds will continue to be made available to meet any financial obligations arising from the Board's present or future liabilities or liabilities arising out of past transactions, events and circumstances. The provision of funds and expenditure by the British Railways Board will be subject to the procedures and controls indicated in the minute.