Reorganization of the Railways
Page 57
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SECTIONS 16 and 17 of the Act provide in general terms for the reorganization of the railways. Within
12 months from May 6, 1953, unless the Minister allows a longer period, the Commission are to prepare a scheme for such reorganization. This must provide for the abolition (if it has not already been abolished) of the Railway Executive, for the creation of area authorities, and for the delegation to them of certain functions of the Commission. [These sections are the only part of the Act that applies to Northern Ireland.] The scheme may in addition provide for certain other matters, notably the co-ordination and inter-relation of authorities set up under the scheme, and for their relationship with the Commission and other bodies.
On any such scheme being submitted to the Minister, the latter is to consider it and consult with such bodies representing classes of person likely to be specially affected by it, as he thinks fit, and with the National Coal Board, After such consultation, and after consultation with the Commission, he may by order approve the scheme with or without modifications, and the scheme will come into effect on a date to be specified in the order. The Commission may submit any further schemes, whether by way ot revocation or amendment, to the Minister. Before exercising any of his powers under this section in relation to any matter affecting Scotland, the Minister has to consult the Secretary of State for Scotland [S. 17].
[The whole scope of the reorganization is so loosely provided for in the Act that it will be necessary to await the publication of the scheme before any detailed ideas
• of its nature can be formed, but it is clear that its main, purpose is to be decentralization.]