HC Deb 05 June 1919 vol 116 cc2191-2
28. Mr. RAPER

asked the Home Secretary if he will ascertain whether the Gattie system was submitted for examination and report to the chief statistical officer of the London County Council by their highways committee; whether that officer reported that it would be possible to do the whole of the collecting and delivery work of the administrative county of London with 5,000 motor lorries; and whether, in view of the fact that such economy of traffic would greatly reduce the congestion in London streets, he proposes to take any action in the matter?

The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the BOARD of TRADE (Mr. Bridge-man)

My right hon. Friend has seen a Report by Sir Edgar Harper of the nature indicated. As regards the point raised in the latter part of the question, he has been looking into the congestion of London traffic, mainly from the passenger point of view, but cannot say that he has had time for any full consideration of the situation as affected by this particular scheme.

Mr. RAPER

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that there is a very strong feeling in the country that the Gattie system, or any other system which tends to relieve congestion, and which is supported by most eminent engineers, should receive unprejudiced and unbiassed consideration?

Mr. BRIDGEMAN

That it will receive.

Mr. RAPER

Will the Board of Trade appoint a Committee or some other body to consider it?

Mr. BRIDGEMAN

I cannot answer that offhand, but I can assure my hon. Friend that every effort will be made to investigate the system and make use of it if it is found practicable.

Mr. RAPER

Surely that can only be done by the system of receiving unprejudiced and unbiassed consideration?

Lieut.-Colonel Sir F. HALL

Is it not the fact that the Minister-designate of Ways and Communications personally expressed himself decidedly in favour of this system and will the Board of Trade under those circumstances have it thoroughly tried?

Mr. BRIDGEMAN

I will certainly convey that suggestion to my right hon. Friend. I cannot answer as to the opinion of the Minister-designate of Ways and Communications.

Sir F. HALL

Does the hon. Gentleman not recognise the fact that heretofore the Board of Trade have held up this system and not given it any chance to be tried?

Sir F. LOWE

Is it not the fact that this system has been considerably investigated by the Board of Trade, and is it not possible for the Board to come to a definite conclusion?

Mr. BRIDGEMAN

I cannot answer off hand what investigations have been made, but if somebody would put down a question on the subject I would be glad to reply.

Mr. MacVEAGH

It has been under consideration for ten years.