HC Deb 24 January 1949 vol 460 cc541-2
8. Mr. Emrys Hughes

asked the Minister of Transport when negotiations are likely to be completed for the transfer of the Scottish Motor Traction Company to public ownership.

Mr. Barnes

I regret that I am not in a position to make any statement.

Mr. Hughes

Is the Minister aware of the general dissatisfaction in Scotland in the delay? This company have just paid 100 per cent. There is a great deal of speculation in their shares and the sooner the process of nationalisation is accelerated the better.

Mr. Ernest Davies

In view of the fact that these negotiations have taken a very long time and of the necessity for a passenger area scheme for the whole of Scotland, will the Minister consider using the compulsory powers which the Act provides for the acquisition of this company?

Mr. Barnes

I would point out that compulsory powers in this case must pass through the area scheme procedure.

Colonel Gomme-Duncan

In view of the fact that among the travelling public in Scotland there is no wish whatever for this company to be nationalised, and of the fact that the prices will inevitably be raised if it is, would the Minister reconsider the whole question and veto any proposal to nationalise this company?

Mr. David Renton

Will the Minister bear in mind that Parliament did not order him to make area schemes for road passenger transport, and that such schemes were only to be made where he considered it to be necessary?

Mr. McAdam

What percentage of the capital of this company was previously owned by the L.M.S. company and the L.N.E. company?