HC Deb 10 May 1933 vol 277 cc1528-9
24. Mr. RAIKES

asked the Minister of Transport whether he will consider the possibility of proceeding with the Dartford-Purfleet tunnel scheme in the near future?

Mr. STANLEY

In present circumstances I understand the local authorities concerned are not prepared to proceed with this costly scheme, and I should not in any event be in a position to provide the financial assistance originally contemplated. Measures are, however, being taken to safeguard the line of the tunnel and its approaches.

Sir P. HARRIS

Does the hon. Gentleman realise that this is the kind of scheme referred to by the Prime Minister as being both useful and giving a large amount of employment?

Mr. STANLEY

In allocating the funds which are at my disposal, I must, of course, consider primarily traffic requirements, and I am allocating what funds I have at my disposal to schemes which, I think, are more important than this tunnel.