HC Deb 02 February 1948 vol 446 c1451
13. Mr. Gammans

asked the Minister of Transport to what extent the cut in capital expenditure will involve the postponement of the electrification of the railway from Finsbury Park to Muswell Hill, when it is expected that this work will be completed and if in the meanwhile he will arrange for a diesel service to Kings Cross and Broad Street.

Mr. Barnes

I am afraid it will involve the further postponement of this scheme. I cannot say for how long. The question of a diesel-service to Kings Cross and Broad Street is a matter for the British Transport Commission, whose attention I am drawing to the hon. Member's Question.

Mr. Gammans

Does the Minister's answer mean that I can hold out no hope to my constituents of a better service than they are getting now, and that they will have to put up with whatever service is given them by the British Transport Commission, in which the majority of them are unwilling shareholders?

Mr. Barnes

I regret the situation, but many capital projects have had to be stopped at the present time.

Mr. Joynson-Hicks

In view of the fact that the right hon. Gentleman is prepared to draw the Commission's attention to this, will he define the different circumstances in which is is prepared to draw their attention to a matter, to make representations to the Commission about a matter, to refer a question to the Commission about a matter, and to take no action in the matter at all? All of those four courses he has proposed this afternoon.

Mr. Barnes

I would prefer to study the comments of hon. Members at greater length.