Written question asked by David Mitchell (Conservative), in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 6 June 1996. It was answered by John Watts (Conservative) on Thursday, 6 June 1996 on behalf of the Department of Transport.

Dept of Transport

Question: Statement on what plans he has to privatise Railfreight Distribution.

Answer: Sir David Mitchell: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what plans he has to privatise Railfreight Distribution; and if he will make a statement.[32067] Mr. Watts: I have today announced that the Government have decided that Railfreight Distribution-- British Rail's channel tunnel freight business--should be offered for sale as soon as possible. I have asked BR, in consultation with my Department, to draw up a programme for its disposal. The offer for sale will be based on the existing business. Railfreight Distribution is heavily loss-making. Privatisation will enable the business to be put onto a sound financial footing so that the growth potential of international freight services via the channel tunnel can be exploited on a commercial basis, thereby furthering the objective of transferring more freight from road to rail.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 32067; 278 c531W
Session: 1995-96
Subjects: Channel tunnel Freight Privatisation Railways Railfreight Distribution