HC Deb 28 January 1931 vol 247 cc972-3
66. Mr. HOPE-BELISHA

asked the Minister of Transport whether it has been brought to his notice that for the second time this winter Torpoint Ferry has been temporarily put out of action through stormy weather and that, as a consequence, recently some two or three hundred persons were held up and many vehicles had to make a long detour by way of Saltash or Gunnislake in order to proceed on their journeys and reach their destinations; and whether, in these circumstances, he will consider the advisability of connecting the counties of Devon and Cornwall by a bridge over the Tamar?

Mr. HERBERT MORRISON

I am aware that the Torpoint Ferry was, some little time ago, temporarily put out of actoin by stormy weather. The question of the connection of the counties of Devon and Cornwall by a bridge over the Tamar is primarily a matter for the local authorities, and negotiations are still proceeding between them and other persons interested.

Mr. HORE-BELISHA

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that negotiations are likely to continue to proceed for some years unless he can take action in the matter?

Mr. MORRISON

As far as we are concerned, we are prepared to discuss the matter with the local authorities, and, as the hon. Member represents one of the towns concerned, he might see to it that the local authorities do something without delay.

Mr. MILLS

Is my right hon. Friend aware that practically from the Eddystone Lighthouse right away up into Cornwall there is not a single road bridge across the River Tamar, and that a road bridge would be a very desirable innovation in the West country?

Mr. MORRISON

I have said nothing that is incompatible with what my hon. Friend has just said.

Mr. HORE-BELISHA

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that my function as representing the constituency is not only to ginger up the local authorities, but to ginger him up too?

Mr. MORRISON

I am not very apprehensive about any gingering up which the hon. Member likes to apply to me. I only suggest that there are other directions in which he can do some gingering up as well.

Lieut.-Colonel ACLAND - TROYTE

Will the right hon. Gentleman undertake not to interfere with the county councils in this matter?