HC Deb 21 March 1949 vol 463 cc24-5
39. Mr. William Shepherd

asked the Minister of Transport the date by which he intends to free all the toll roads and bridges now operating under his control.

The Minister of Transport (Mr. Barnes)

There are no toll roads or bridges operating under my control. There are four toll bridges and one toll road on or connecting trunk routes and I am in negotiation with the owners, who include the British Transport Commission, with a view to freeing them. It is not possible to say when the negotiations will be completed.

Mr. Shepherd

Why should toll roads be operated by the British Transport Commission? Is it the policy of the right hon. Gentleman to see that all the penalties of nationalisation are visited upon the people while none of the advantages accrue to them?

Mr. Barnes

These were properties of the old railway companies which have been taken over by the British Transport Commission.

Mr. Shepherd

Surely a toll road can be freed over-night?