underwrite

To write below or under; subscribe.

To subscribe (a document, policy etc.) with one's name.

To sign; to put one's name to.

To agree to pay by signing one's name; subscribe.

Specifically, to assume financial responsibility for something, and guarantee it against failure.

Dr. Beeching's obvious intent is that if Scottish—and similarly unprofitable English and Welsh—railways are to be maintained, it must be done by an unconcealed subsidy; he is determined that the railways shall no longer be preoccupied with—and derided for—immense deficits which include the burden of social services the State must openly underwrite, if it wants them.