42. Mr. Vaneasked the Minister of Transport if he will make a statement as to what instructions have been given to the Transport Commission with regard to the closing of local railway lines for passenger traffic and the provision of alternative omnibus services, in accord- 21 ance with powers given him by Section 4 (1) of the Transport Act, 1947.
§ Mr. MaclayNone, Sir.
Mr. VaneIs my hon. Friend aware that a large number of stations in country areas have been closed for passenger traffic, and does he appreciate the dissatisfaction caused locally, since no alternative arrangements to provide transport by bus ever seemed to be made in these cases?
§ Mr. MaclayMay I suggest that where that has happened it is a case for reference to the local area consultative committee. I understand that in future any proposals to close down a branch line will be submitted to the consultative committee before any decision to that effect is taken.
§ Mrs. E. M. BraddockWould the Minister look at the question of the closing of the line at Southport? He said that no line had been closed. His information is incorrect, because a line has been closed. Will he look into that matter?
§ Mr. MaclayI do not think that I said no line had been closed.