§ 36. Mr. R. MORRISONasked the Minister of Transport whether the legislation necessary before the Victoria Dock Road scheme can be commenced will be in the form of a Government Bill or a Private Bill; and, if the latter, by whom it will be promoted?
§ Colonel ASHLEYThe point raised by the hon. Member is one of procedure which will need to be considered in the course of the negotiations with the authorities concerned.
§ Mr. W. THORNEIn consequence of the Government agreeing to provide 75 per cent. of the cost of carrying out the scheme, the London County Council finding the remainder, is it not possible to get on with the work?
§ Colonel ASHLEYI am afraid the hon. Member's statements are not quite accurate.
§ Mr. THORNEDid not the Prime Minister declare that the Government are prepared to provide 75 per cent., and has it not been reported to the House that the London County Council have agreed to provide the remaining 25 per cent?
§ Colonel ASHLEYThe Government have undertaken to find 75 per cent. if the local authorities concerned will find the remainder.
§ Mr. THORNEThe right hon. Gentleman must surely know that the London County Council have already agreed by resolution to supply the other 25 per cent, so there is no need to boggle about the local authorities.
§ Colonel ASHLEYPerhaps the hon. Member will let me know on what grounds he makes that statement?
§ Mr. THORNECertainly.