§ 42. Mr. Malcolm MacMillanasked the Postmaster-General whether he has given consideration in consultation with the Minister of Transport, to the suggestion of the hon. Member for the Western Isles that certain classes of goods, especially perishables, should be carried by the steamers in the subsidised area at a flat- rate charge to all islands instead of continuing the present excessive charges, and with what result?
§ The Parliamentary-Secretary to the Ministry of Transport (Captain Austin Hudson)I have been asked to reply. The hon. Member's suggestion will be borne in mind; but my right hon. Friend is not satisfied that a flat rate system of charging is practicable or desirable. In any case, as the hon. Member is no doubt aware, there is no power under the terms of the contract with Messrs. MacBrayne to increase charges or to require reductions for a period of two years from 1st January, 1939.