HC Deb 15 July 1942 vol 381 cc1215-6
25. Mr. Ellis Smith

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of War Transport whether the North Staffs. Transport Consultative Committee have met since January; and what action has been taken, or is to be taken, in order that adequate transport facilities can be provided for next winter?

Sir A. Salter

The answer to the first part of the Question is in the negative. With the better supply of vehicles, spare parts and labour many improvements have been effected in the omnibus services and others are being planned. I am informed that the special services to the larger factories are satisfactory, and that the town services are generally adequate, though there is some congestion in the evening peak period, which would be eliminated by the staggering of working hours in the pottery industry. The working committee of omnibus operators has submitted a plan for staggered hours to the chamber of commerce for early discussion with the managements and workpeople, after which a meeting of the consultative committee will be convened.

Mr. Smith

Am I correct in understanding that the proposal is only to be submitted to the chamber of commerce? Are the workpeople's representative being consulted?

Sir A. Salter

I think the workpeople are being consulted too.

26. Mr. Smith

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of War Transport whether he has considered a report on the investigation conducted into the North Staffs, transport by Mr. Arthur Deakin, acting general secretary of the Transport and General Workers' Union; and what action it is proposed to take?

Sir A. Salter

Mr. Deakin made a report to the Inland Transport War Council following a visit which he paid to North Staffordshire. His comments are being kept in mind in connection with the action to which I referred in my Answer to the previous Question.