HC Deb 25 June 1941 vol 372 cc1027-8
15. Mr. Ness Edwards

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Transport whether he will inquire into the present inadequate arrangements for conveying workers to mines and factories in South Wales; and whether he will take steps so to reorganise transport as to enable workers regularly to attend their places of employment?

Colonel Llewellin

As my hon. Friend and I both know, communications between the different valleys of South Wales are in general difficult. Quite a number of persons are now taking longer and unaccustomed journeys to their work. I do not agree that there is any general inadequacy of transport in the area, but if my hon. Friend will inform me of any particular difficulties not yet overcome I will gladly see whether further transport cannot be made available.

Mr. Edwards

Is the Minister not aware that representations have been made, both in this House and to the Regional Commissioner and Traffic Commissioner in South Wales, that the position is still chaotic, and that many miners lose days each week because of the chaotic condition of the traffic? When is he going to take action in the matter?

Colonel Llewellin

I know that representations have been made to the Regional Transport Commissioner in the area. We have been in touch with him, and he has informed us that he is doing what he can to make things better. If my hon. Friend still thinks there are some cases where there have not been improvements and will let me know the particulars, I will go into the matter myself.

Mr. Edwards

Is the Parliamentary Secretary aware that representations have been made to other Ministries in an effort to get something done, and that we have been hammering at it for six months? Will the Minister have an investigation made on the spot to see whether something cannot be done?

Colonel Llewellin

I hope my hon. Friend will tell me exactly where these places are, and I will go into the matter myself.

Mr. Edwards

Read the OFFICIAL REPORT.

Mr. Cocks

In discussing these arrangements in other parts of the country, is it better for a Member to apply to the Regional Commissioner or the Ministry of Transport?

Colonel Llewellin

I think it is better for the local interests to apply to the local Commissioner. If the local people cannot get it done, the matter will come on the plane where an hon. Member will take it up with the Ministry, and I shall be glad to look into it.