ABSTRACT
The average standard of transport management in the countryside is, with outstanding exceptions, disconcertingly low. In many cases a more useful service could be provided at far less cost. The chief trouble has perhaps been the lack of foresight on the part of transport— especially railway— management. It was not realized in time that the railways could not pay their way and continue to provide extensive social services. Throughout the 1950’s, arguments continued inside and outside the industry as to whether the railways should be regarded as a public utility or whether they should be run on strictly business lines disregarding the interests of minorities. The Committee’s findings were published in July 1960, a delay in itself harassing to operators uncertain whether or not to prune services further, and two years later the Government had still not indicated any intentions. The problem of rural transport does of course very largely concern girls and young women.
