HC Deb 23 May 1949 vol 465 c868
20. Mr. Thomas Macpherson

asked the Minister of Transport if he has any further information regarding the date when the electrification of the line between Liverpool Street and Shenfield will be completed and the service in operation.

The Minister of Transport (Mr. Barnes)

I understand that the British Transport Commission hope to bring this electrification scheme into service by the end of the year.

Mr. Macpherson

In view of the continued unsatisfactory state of the service, will my right hon. Friend promise to do something to accelerate the completion of this work? It is most desirable that the work should be completed and the service in operation before the winter.

Mr. Barnes

I cannot indicate that I can use any special measures to accelerate the work, but I can assure my hon. Friend that the British Transport Commission are fully alive to the travelling difficulties in this area and that they will certainly press on as urgently as possible.

Mr. Ernest Davies

When this work is completed, will my right hon. Friend prevent the dispersal of the labour force engaged on such valuable work, and transfer it to the electrification of the Liverpool Street to Enfield line?