§ 67. Mr. CROWDERasked the Minister of Transport whether his Department has issued, or intends to issue, any circular to local authorities suggesting the desirability of building underground garages; and, if so, whether he can give any details?
§ Mr. HORE-BELISHAA letter addressed on my behalf to local authorities on 15th August, 1935, contains the following paragraph:
35. By section 16 of the Restriction of Ribbon Development Act, 1935, the powers of local authorities to provide parking places are now extended so as to include the provision of buildings and underground parking places for the same purpose, with power to let on hire. The Minister regards the provision of adequate parking accommodation at reasonable charges as a potent means of reducing the inconvenience to traffic and the danger to life and limb caused by the presence of waiting vehicles in the streets. Where private enterprise does not meet public needs in this regard, the Minister trusts that in all appropriate cases this important matter may receive the very early consideration of local authorities.
§ Mr. CROWDERDoes the right hon. Gentleman consider it necessary to get powers from Parliament to make grants to local authorities for building such garages?
§ Mr. HORE-BELISHAI do not think that is necessary. The local authorities have power to make a charge to recoup their expenses.