HC Deb 02 July 1941 vol 372 cc1340-1
37. Mr. Thorne

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of War Transport when Mr. Frank Pick will report in connection with the investigation into traffic on British canals and inland waterways?

The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of War Transport (Colonel Llewellin)

As I stated on 28th May, in answer to a Question by my hon. Friend the Member for Pudsey and Otley (Sir G. Gibson), Mr. Frank Pick's report has been received.

40. Mr. Mathers

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of War Transport whether, arising out of the experience of the war, he will consult with all the other Ministers concerned and consider making preparations for the enlarging of the Forth and Clyde canal or the construction of a new mid-Scotland canal for ocean-going ships?

Colonel Llewellin

The report of the Mid-Scotland Ship Canal Committee issued in 1930 indicated that the cost of a canal would probably be £50,000,000 or more; that the necessary preliminary preparations would occupy from 3 to 4½ years; and that the construction would take from 10 to 16 years. The project was again examined in 1937, and it was decided that the advantages were insufficient to justify its construction. Nothing has happened since to warrant a reversal of that decision.

Mr. Mathers

I was not asking for ancient history. I am asking a current question: Will the Ministers consulted in connection with this matter include my right hon. Friend the Minister without Portfolio?

Colonel Llewellin

I think I did answer my hon Friend's current question. This project would take so long and would at this time employ so much labour that it is really not a matter that we could undertake in the middle of the war.

Mr. Mathers

Is it being kept in view for after the war?

Colonel Llewellin

That is hardly a current question.

Mr. Stokes

Would it not be well to proceed now so as to be ready in time for the next war?