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APPENDIX B

DRAFT STATEMENT TO BE MADE BY

THE MINISTER OF TRANSPORT

I think that the House will wish to be informed that the British Transport Commission have made an applica- tion to me to make regulations under Section 82 of the Transport Act for the purpose of authorising an increase in certain of their charges.

Honourable Members will be aware that the Commission's net revenue deficiency for 1948 was £4 millions and that the Commission indicated in paragraph 69 of their First Annual Report that a further marked deterioration of the working results in. 1949 was inevitable.

At present it appears likely that the net revenue deficiency for the current year will be of the order of £25 millions and present indications are that it would be greater in 1950 on the basis of existing charges apart from any question of recouping the accrued deficiency. I therefore Consider it expedient with a view to ensuring a sufficient revenue to the Commission that the question of an increase in their charges should be examined with the least possible delay.

I have accordingly, in conformity with the pro- visions of Section 82 of the Transport Act, decided to consult with and consider the advice in this matter of the permanent members of the Transport Tribunal acting as a Consultative Committee. In doing so I have expressed the view that they will no doubt think it desirable to consult with such represen- tative bodies of traders and shipping as they think fit and take their views into consideration.

The Commission do not propose any increase in passenger fares and I have informed the Committee that I am in agreement with the Commission on this point.

The increased powers of charges sought by the Commission are in effect:-

Railway Charges:

A general increase of 16. 2/3 per cent in the present charges applicable to freight train traffic and to parcels, other merchandise and livestock carried by passenger train or other similar service.

Dock Charges:

(a)

(b)

C

Dues on Coastwise vessels and cargoes the present general increase of 25 per cent over charges in force on 31st August, 1939, to be raised to 50 per cent;

all other rates, dues and charges the present

general increase of 75 per cent over charges in force on that date to be raised to 100 per cent.

For the convenience of Honourable Members I am having copies of the Commission's application and the reference to the Commit Pagep722 of 1097the Library.

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