HC Deb 24 July 1950 vol 478 cc23-4
66. Mr. Hurd

asked the Minister of Transport what action he is taking within his powers under the Railway and Canal Traffic Act, 1888, in regard to the Reading-Newbury section of the Kennet and Avon Canal.

70. Mr. Hollis

asked the Minister of Transport whether under the Railway and Canal Traffic Act, 1888, he will call for a report on the threatened closing of the Kennet-Avon canal.

Mr. Barnes

The Railway and Canal Traffic Act, 1888, gives me no power either to prevent the closing of this canal or to require it to be re-opened. This is a matter for the British Transport Commission subject to any statutory obligations resting upon them. As the hon. Members have been informed, the Docks and Inland Waterways Executive have the matter under consideration.

Mr. Hurd

Does the Minister's answer mean that the British Transport Commission can abandon this section of the Kennet and Avon canal without Consulting the Minister or Parliament, or without seeking any representations from the people affected?

Mr. Barnes

I should not like to say that they could just abandon it offhand, but certainly if the banks are dangerous or the cost is excessive, then the question of the future of the canal will come under consideration.

Mr. Hollis

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware, first, that if it has not been abandoned off hand, in point of fact a large sum of money has been spent recently in building new gates at Wootton Rivers? Secondly, is he aware that if there is no power given him under the Act to close or keep open canals, it does give him power to do what I asked in my Question—to call for a report? Will he deal with that question?

Mr. Barnes

I think the best plan is to wait until the Inland Waterways and Docks Executive, whose duty it is to consider these matters, have had the position thoroughly under consideration. I propose to await their report before I commit myself to any decision.

Mr. Hurd

What will happen, meanwhile, to the livelihood of the canal carriers?

Mr. Barnes

It should not prevent that from continuing. It will go on—

Mr. Hurd

No.

Mr. Barnes

If it does not, then that matter must be suspended until this investigation is completed.

Mr. Hollis

Do I take it that the right hon. Gentleman will await the report, but is not willing to call for one? Is that the position?

Mr. Barnes

Yes.