HC Deb 22 June 1953 vol 516 c1468
15. Mr. Ernest Davies

asked the Minister of Transport if he will now announce his decision in regard to development plans for travelling facilities in North London.

Mr. Lennox-Boyd

I regret that I am not yet in a position to make a statement on this matter.

Mr. Ernest Davies

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that it is the fifth time that he has given that answer since 20th October last year, when he said that he hoped soon to make a statement? What does he mean by "soon"?

Mr. Lennox-Boyd

In the case of a scheme such as the London Plan, which is estimated to cost £340 million, some consideration is necessary.

Mr. Ernest Davies

Is the Minister aware that there have been announcements about certain works taking place, including the electrification of the South-end—Tilbury line? While the people in my constituency and in North London generally are waiting for his decision, other parts of the country are getting improvements.

Mr. Lewis

I do not represent the area referred to, but I have to travel in that area every day and can substantiate the views put forward by my hon. Friend. It is the view of everybody in North London that something should be done. Cannot the Minister do something, even if it is only of a temporary character?

Mr. Lennox-Boyd

I realise the anxiety of people in North London and I hope we shall in due course be able to do something about it, but the London Plan as a whole, of which this is an inextricable part, is such a formidable proposition that it would be unwise for me to make any definite statement at the moment.