§ 88. Mr. ELLIS DAVIESasked the Minister of Transport whether he has received representations from the town council of Denbigh with reference to the unsatisfactory condition of the railway station; and what steps, if any, have been taken in the matter?
§ Colonel ASHLEYThe reply to the first part of this question is in the affirmative. As regards the second part, I have, as the hon. Member is aware, been in communication with the railway company, and have furnished him with a copy of a letter from the company, dated the 23rd June last, explaining their position and suggesting that he might care to discuss the whole matter with the General Manager. I understand, on inquiry, that the company will be pleased to arrange for this interview on hearing from the hon. Member. The case is not one in which I have any compulsory powers.
§ Mr. DAVIESIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that I have made two applications for an interview which have been refused?
§ Colonel ASHLEYI am very sorry indeed to hear that. I am surprised to hear it. If the hon. Gentleman will communicate with me privately and give me the facts I will communicate with the railway company.
§ Captain GARRO-JONESWhy does the right hon. Gentleman say he has no compulsory powers? The Railways Act of 1921 expressly empowers him to make an application before the Railway Rates Tribunal for better facilities.
§ Colonel ASHLEYThat is primarily a matter for the traders to do.
§ Captain GARRO-JONESYes, primarily: but is it not the fact that if the traders neglect that duty it is imposed upon the Minister?
§ Colonel ASHLEYIf the accommodation is so insufficient as indicated in the question surely the traders would do so.
§ Captain GARRO-JONESIf the traders neglect to do so is it not the fact that the right hon. Gentleman has power to take steps?
§ Colonel ASHLEYYes, I have the power, but in the present circumstances it is, primarily, the duty of the traders.