HC Deb 06 December 1948 vol 459 cc29-30
61. Mr. MacLeod

asked the Minister of Transport when he expects to introduce legislation to implement recommendations of the Report of the Committee on Ferries in Great Britain.

66. Mr. Willis

asked the Minister of Transport what steps have been taken to give effect to the recommendations of Part III of the Ferries Report.

67. Brigadier Medlicott

asked the Minister of Transport how soon it is anticipated that it will be possible to introduce legislation to implement the recommendations of the Report of the Committee on Ferries in Great Britain.

The Minister of Transport (Mr. Barnes)

I am not in a position to make any statement regarding legislation. I hope that it will be possible to give effect without legislation to a number of the recommendations in the Committee's Report, including Part III of the Report, and I am considering how far and by what means such recommendations can be put into effect administratively. Other Departments besides my own are concerned, but I hope to be able to let the hon. Members have more definite news before long.

Mr. MacLeod

Is the Minister aware of the great dissatisfaction which is felt in the Highlands of Scotland at the unsatisfactory state of these ferries? Is he further aware that they are considered a great deterrent not only to local trade but to the development of the tourist movement?

Mr. Barnes

Yes, Sir, I am quite aware of that, but I would remind the hon. Gentleman that until this Committee was established nothing had been done for a long time and very little information existed on this matter. The purpose of establishing the Committee was, first of all, to get authoritative information on which action could be based if necessary in the future.

Mr. MacLeod

Will the Minister ensure that there is no further delay?

Mr. Barnes

I will do my best.