HC Deb 15 February 1939 vol 343 cc1725-7
75. Mr. Alan Herbert

asked the Minister of Transport whether His Majesty's Government propose to introduce legislation to carry out the recommendations of the Royal Commission on Canals and Waterways, 1909; and whether he can make any statement on the present condition of inland waterways, and the future policy of the Government concerning them?

Mr. Burgin

I will gladly examine any proposals put before me which would encourage the profitable use of the canals but, as at present advised, am not disposed to introduce legislation.

76. Mr. Herbert

asked the Minister of Transport how many miles of inland waterways, including canals, navigations, and open rivers, were navigable by loaded commercial craft in 1909, when the Royal Commission on Canals and Waterways reported; and what are the comparable figures now?

Mr. Burgin

According to the report of the Royal Commission on Canals, 1909, the mileage of canals and inland navigations in use at that period in the United Kingdom was 4,670 miles. Comparable figures at the present time are not readily available.

Mr. Westwood

In view of the attitude of the railway companies which control some of these canals in Britain to-day, will the Minister set up another commission of inquiry into the way in which this method of transport is being completely destroyed by the railway companies?

Mr. Burgin

I think I can achieve my purpose without a Royal Commission.

77. Mr. Herbert

asked the Minister of Transport whether the inland waterway from the Severn to the Thames, by the Kennet and Avon route, is now navigable by loaded commercial craft?

Mr. Burgin

This length of canal has been little used of late years. I am informed by the owners that in their view it would be capable of navigation provided that the craft do not exceed certain dimensions.

Mr. Herbert

In view of the obvious strategic importance of that route, will the right hon. Gentleman reconsider his reply to question No. 75?

Mr. Burgin

Yes, Sir, I have the question of the canals and their user in time of emergency constantly under my observation. I do not think that legislation will be necessary, but I appreciate the importance of the hon. Member's question.

Sir P. Hurd

Will the Minister take into consultation the local authorities through whose region this canal runs?

Mr. Burgin

I will consider that.

Mr. R. Gibson

Can the Minister give the dimensions of the commercial craft which use the canal?

Mr. Burgin

The owners state that the canal is navigable by craft of a length not exceeding 69 feet, a beam not exceed- ing 13 feet 10 inches, a height above water level not exceeding 8 feet 3 inches, and a draught not exceeding 3 feet.