HC Deb 23 July 1930 vol 241 cc2135-7
37. Mr. TRAIN

asked the Minister of Transport whether he intends to publish the report of the committee on the Mid-Scotland Ship Canal; and what decision has been reached on the findings of the committee?

Mr. HERBERT MORRISON

I am not in a position to say more at the moment than that the report referred to is receiving the immediate consideration of the Ministers concerned.

Mr. TRAIN

In view of the national importance of this subject, will the Minister give the widest possible facilities for the circulation of this report?

Mr. MORRISON

I cannot say until the Ministers concerned have completed their examination of the document.

Mr. MACLEAN

Are we to understand from my hon. Friend that a full inquiry has been made and that the report of the committee is now in the hands of his Department?

Mr. MORRISON

Yes, Sir, the report of the inquiry has been received, and it is now being considered by the Ministers concerned.

Mr. MACLEAN

In view of the fact that consideration is now being given to the report, will the Ministry publish it during the Recess if it is possible to do so?

Mr. MORRISON

That is a question upon which I should not at this stage be willing to be the judge, seeing that the matter is being considered by myself and my colleagues.

Mr. ERNEST BROWN

Can the hon. Gentleman say whether in any case the report is to be made available to the Members of the House?

Mr. MORRISON

I cannot answer that question on the spur of the moment. The report has only just been received and is being considered by my colleagues in the Government, and, obviously, I cannot answer that question at this stage.

Mr. BROWN

Why should it not be made available to Members of the House? It is a matter of great interest not only to Members in Scotland but to Members of all parties.

Mr. MORRISON

I have not said that it should not be available. I have only said that at this moment I am not prepared to say that it should be available, but the hon. Member should not presume what the decision of the Government may be on that point. His representation will be taken into account as his representations are always taken into account.

Mr. BROWN

May I ask the hon. Gentlemen why there should be any doubt whatever—it is that fact which startles the House—that the report should be available to Members of the House?

Mr. MORRISON

I am sure that the House appreciates that it is a perfectly healthy instinct on the part of a Minister not to jump to conclusions.