§ 66. Mr. Maclayasked the Minister of Transport whether he has caused any inquiry to be made into the facilities and ability of West Coast ports to handle and meet adequately the extra demands that would be made on their services if, in the event of war, it should become necessary to divert sea-borne traffic from East Coast ports to West Coast ports?
§ Mr. BurginYes, Sir. A sub-committee of the Committee of Imperial Defence recently made a careful examination of the problems involved in a possible diversion of sea-borne traffic from East Coast ports to West Coast ports, including a preliminary examination of the facilities available at West Coast ports. As the next step I have appointed, in accordance with the recommendation of the sub-committee, a Port and Transit Committee to assist me in the formulation of detailed plans. The committee includes representatives of transport and dock undertakings, and of trade organisations. It is in communication with the various port authorities.