§ 40. Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHYasked the Minister of Transport if he is aware of the serious congestion that periodically occurs in the port of Hull, especially during the height of the timber-importing season, and of the need, for example, of a better connection between the Alexandra and Victoria docks and the utilisation of the empty land space known as the Western Reservation; that a deadlock has been reached between the corporation of the city and the London and North-Eastern Railway Company on the question of using this ground for relieving congestion and further developing the port; and whether he will take any steps in the matter?
§ The MINISTER of TRANSPORT (Colonel Ashley)I am aware that congestion has occurred at Hull during the height of the timber-importing season, 407 but, so far as my information goes, this congestion is not due to shortage of storage acccommodation. With regard to the last part of the question, I am not fully aware of the nature of the discussions to which the hon. and gallant Member refers, but I understand that no offer in connection with the Western Reservation has been made by the corporation to the railway company and that the offer which is understood to have been made to the timber trade was on lines which would not be suitable for permanent development by the railway company.
§ Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHYIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that he has been misinformed on this point, and that an offer has been made by the corporation, and will he use his good offices in the matter to try and bring about a settlement?
§ Colonel ASHLEYIf the hon. and gallant Member will let me know what he thinks I can usefully do, I will see what action I can take in the matter.