HC Deb 26 April 1939 vol 346 cc1141-2
58. Mr. David Adams

asked the Minister of Transport what progress has been made in the application of the rail way companies for improved conditions for their services; and what measures he is taking in this connection to ensure that the interests of other forms of transport, and also those of industrial rail users and of the travelling public, are being safe guarded?

59. Mr. Benjamin Smith

asked the Minister of Transport whether he has yet received the report of the Transport Advisory Council on the railway companies' square deal proposals; and when does he propose to publish it?

60. Mr. Kennedy

asked the Minister of Transport whether, having received the report of the Transport Advisory Council on the mater of the proposed agreement between the railway companies and the shipping and road transport interests, any legislative or other action is to be taken to give effect to the report?

Captain Wallace

I have received the report of the Transport Advisory Council and propose to publish it as soon as possible. I am giving immediate and careful consideration to the report but I am not yet in a position to make any statement.

Mr. Kennedy

In view of the possible early amalgamation of these interests, may we ask for an assurance that the public interest will be protected in the matter of railway anl other services and rates?

Captain Wallace

I do not think that I can say more than that I will give immediate and careful consideration to the whole report.

Mr. Benjamin Smith

Will the right hon. Gentleman arrange to publish the report with the utmost celerity, having regard to the fact that so many interests are concerned in it? As he knows, many interests were represented at the public inquiry and the report has been available now for quite a long time.

Captain Wallace

There will be no avoidable delay in the publication of the report, but the hon. Member will recognise that at the present time the Stationery Office is very hard pressed.

Mr. David Adams

Are we to understand that this House will have an opportunity of ratifying any decisions to which the Minister may come in this matter?

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