HC Deb 09 February 1944 vol 396 cc1758-9
31. Major Lloyd

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of War Transport if he is in a position to state when the departmental committee considering the question of a Forth-Clyde ship canal will conclude its deliberations; and will its Report be published.

Mr. Noel-Baker

I understand that the departmental group who are considering the question of a Forth-Clyde ship canal are now awaiting information which may not be received before the end of February, or even later. I cannot, therefore, predict when their deliberations are likely to end. Since certain questions of national security may be involved, my Noble Friend thinks it wiser to make no decision about the publication of the report, until it has been received.

Major Lloyd

Is the Minister aware that there will be a definite demand for publication of this Report when the time comes?

Mr. Noel-Baker

Yes, Sir. Of course, consideration has been given to the point that the case of both sides must be made public, and I fully agree, but there are matters which cannot be made public and my Noble Friend thinks it better to wait until we see the Report.