HC Deb 10 February 1943 vol 386 cc1299-301
29. Captain Strickland

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of War Transport whether, in view of further investigation and the support of manufacturers' and traders' associations, he will give fresh consideration to the value of utilising the experience of clearing houses in organising effective and economic operation and co-ordination of road transport vehicles, particularly as regards the best use of the longer distance vehicles, of which the majority now in use belong to the smaller operators?

The Joint Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of War Transport (Mr. Noel-Baker)

Some time ago I met, on behalf of my Noble Friend, a deputation from the Conference of Road Transport Clearing Houses. Later my Noble Friend himself received the leaders of certain associations and traders. In the light of these representations, my hon. Friend has given the most careful consideration to the question of using clearing houses in the organisation of his road haulage scheme. He has come to the conclusion that, in general, he can operate the road haulage scheme most effectively and economically by using to the full the organisation of the controlled road haulage firms themselves and that he would not be justified in arranging for the general employment of intermediaries between the road haulage organisation and the Government Departments or other consignors of traffic. There may, of course, be cases where it is still to the advantage of a merchant or trader that a clearing house should act as his transport department and my Noble Friend would make no objection to such an arrangement, but it would have to be understood that the clearing house looked to the merchant or trader for its remuneration and that it would not be possible for the Government to allow commissions to the clearing house on the rates which its road haulage organisation will charge for the transport of goods.

Captain Strickland

Has my hon. Friend given due consideration to the communication which he has received from the London Chamber of Commerce pointing out the extraordinary value of these clearing houses, particularly as they assist the small operators, of whom some 10,000 have now indicated their desire that these clearing houses should be continued? May I also ask whether, before a decision is taken, the hon. Gentleman would be willing to receive a further deputation?

Mr. Noel-Baker

We have considered all the representations, and my Noble Friend has given most careful consideration to the whole subject. I can hold out no hope of any change of policy, but if my hon. and gallant Friend thinks that a deputation will serve a useful purpose, I shall be very glad to receive it.

Sir Joseph Lamb

Will not the hon. Gentleman admit that the closest collaboration is necessary, for the success of this or any other scheme, with those concerned in these industries?

Mr. Noel-Baker

Every step that we can take to secure closer collaboration is required.

Sir John Mellor

Is not the hon. Gentleman aware that there is widespread support for the appeal contained in the Question of my hon. and gallant Friend?

Mr. Noel-Baker

Yes, Sir, I know what the support is, but we have to look at the technical merits of the question.