HC Deb 17 November 1937 vol 329 cc387-8
42. Sir William Davison

asked the Minister of Transport whether he is aware of the continuing congestion of traffic at Victoria Gate, Hyde Park; will he inform the House of the reasons as to why the necessary improvements, which have been agreed to by all the bodies concerned for many months past, have not yet been commenced; who is responsible for the delay; and when is it proposed that a start will be made?

Captain Hudson

The responsibility for this improvement rests with the London County Council, who have not yet approved it. They inform me that it was not possible to put forward this scheme in advance of other more urgent schemes which have fully occupied the local authorities for the last few months. It will, however, be brought before the appropriate committee of the council at an early date.

Sir W. Davison

This has been before the Ministry of Transport in this House for years now, and will not the Office of Works or somebody not make an announcement?

Captain Hudson

This is a matter for the appropriate local authority, which is the London County Council. As my hon. Friend knows, we have been endeavouring to expedite this matter, and I hope that they may make a start at an early date.

Mr. Charles Williams

Is my hon. and gallant Friend not aware that the London County Council is a very slow and reactionary body?