§ 59. Mr. AYLESasked the Minister of Transport whether, in view of the continued unemployment of large numbers of people and the need for additional transport facilities between the Midlands and the Bristol Channel, he has any statement to make as to the progress of the negotiations between the city of Birmingham and other local authorities with regard to the development of the canal system between Birmingham and Sharpness; and whether he can usefully inter- 1127 vene in any way, either by assistance at conferences between the bodies concerned or by the sympathetic consideration of grants, to facilitate the promotion of this addition to our national transport system?
§ The MINISTER of TRANSPORT (Mr. Gosling)I am in touch with the local authorities interested in the improvement of the waterway between Birmingham and the Bristol Channel and recently discussed the scheme with their representatives. I asked the Birmingham Corporation for further information on certain aspects of the proposals, some of which affect other local authorities, and I desire to give any assistance I can in connection with the consideration of this project.
§ Mr. AYLESDoes the hon. Gentleman know that there is grave need for expediting the decision of the authorities in this matter, owing to the fact that there is a heavy handicap on goods coming from the Midlands to the Bristol Channel, due to the heavy railway freights?
§ Colonel ASHLEYHas the City of Bristol offered to put up any money for this purpose?
§ Mr. GOSLINGAs a matter of fact, the local authorities are co-operating, and the matter is going on very well. I am awaiting further information from Birmingham.
§ Colonel ASHLEYMay I have an answer to my question? Has the City of Bristol offered to put up any money—or has the City of Birmingham done so?
§ Mr. GOSLINGLet me put it another way. The money has not yet been refused.
§ Mr. AYLESDoes the Minister know of any sums which have been put up by any of the authorities concerned?