§ 33. Mr. HANNONasked the Lord Privy Seal whether progress is being made with the project for the electrification of the Great Northern Railway from King's Cross to Welwyn Garden City; and the probable date when the scheme can be commenced and employment opportunities made available?
Mr. THOMASAn application for assistance under Part 1 of the Development (Loan Guarantees and Grants) Act, 1929, in respect of this scheme, has recently been submitted to the Advisory Committee, and is under consideration. It is understood from the application that, if the work is approved for grant, a commencement could be made in about nine months from the date of approval.
§ Mr. HANNONWill the Lord Privy Seal do everything he can by the use of his personal influence to facilitate this scheme, so that employment may be offered to people who are now waiting for it?
Mr. THOMASSeven months ago I invited the railway companies to meet me, and one of the schemes which I had in mind, and which I urged, was this particular scheme. I am still urging it, and it has reached the stage which I have now indicated.