§ 41. Mr. E. Smithasked the Minister of Transport whether he will consult with the Minister for the Co-ordination of Defence, the President of the Board of Trade, and other interested people on the desirability of deepening, widening, and extending the Manchester Ship Canal to meet the River Humber?
§ Mr. BurginNo such scheme has been proposed to me by the responsible authorities, and having regard to the physical difficulties in the way of such an extension of the Ship Canal, I cannot see that any useful purpose would be served by my taking the course suggested by the hon. Member.
§ Mr. SmithIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that had the course that he is adopting been adopted 50 years ago, the Manchester Ship Canal would never have been built? Is there not great need for initiative to be taken by Government Departments with a view to the preparation of public work in matters of this kind?
§ Mr. BurginManchester is connected with the Humber by canals and barges. What the hon. Member suggests is a ship canal in a direct line between the Manchester Ship Canal and the Humber, which would involve going through the Pennines.
§ Mr. SmithWill the right hon. Gentleman bear in mind the great strategic value of a proposal of this character and also what has been done in other countries in matters of this kind?