HC Deb 03 April 1950 vol 473 cc848-9
37. Mr. Peter Thorneycroft

asked the Minister of Transport whether he proposes to accept or reject the advice now tendered to him by the permanent members of the Transport Tribunal acting as an advisory committee under Section 82 of the Transport Act, 1947.

Mr. Barnes

This matter is still under consideration.

Mr. Thorneycroft

How long does the right hon. Gentleman propose to delay this important decision? Is he aware—are the Cabinet aware—of the very great hardships and difficulties which are being imposed on private enterprise by the fact that people are incapable of fixing their prices until they know what the costs of transport are to be?

Mr. Barnes

I was under the impression that in a recent Debate the hon. Member himself was urging the importance of the effects of such a decision. [HON. MEMBERS: "Hear, hear."] At the moment, I have nothing to add to the statement I have made.

Mr. Eden

Will the right hon. Gentleman be able to make a statement before we adjourn for Easter?

Mr. Barnes

I do not know that I shall be in a position to do so; I cannot say definitely at the moment.

Lady Tweedsmuir

Will the right hon. Gentleman explain how the inter-Departmental inquiry discussing transport rates in Scotland can discuss the subject intelligently when they do not know on what to base their costs?

Hon. Members

Answer.

Mr. Barnes

I can only repeat that I am not able to make any further statement now.