§ 30. Mr. Ellis Smithasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of War Transport whether it is intended to organise the ports on a more efficient basis for post-war purposes to land the loads at the ports nearest to the places where they are required, cutting out overlapping as far as possible; and if it is intended to benefit from our war experience in transport in every possible manner in framing post-war plans?
§ Mr. Noel-BakerIn considering the organisation of the ports after the war, the principle which my hon. Friend puts forward in the first part of his Question will certainly be borne in mind. During the war, many expedients have of necessity been adopted in the organisation of transport which would not be economical or convenient in time of peace; but much of our experience has been of lasting value, and my hon. Friend may rest assured that it will not be forgotten in the preparation of our post-war plans.
§ Mr. A. EdwardsIs my hon. Friend aware that the Port of London still has vast plans for extension, and is it not a fact that they have concentrated on London, which has suffered under a serious handicap during the war, whereas other ports, much bigger and very much cheaper, have been neglected?
§ Mr. Noel-BakerThose considerations will be borne in mind by my Noble Friend.