HC Deb 18 November 1953 vol 520 cc1716-8
35. Lord Malcolm Douglas-Hamilton

asked the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation what action he has taken, or proposes taking, on the Inverness Chamber of Commerce Report on Highland Transport problems sent to him on the 1st May, 1953.

Mr. Molson

The Report covers a wide range of subjects, and I cannot deal with all of them in this answer. As regards railway charges, this is a matter for the interests concerned to take up in the first instance with the British Transport Commission, and if necessary with the Transport Tribunal. Delegation of regional authority is similarly a question primarily for the Commission in connection with their plans for re-organisation under Section 16 of the Transport Act, 1953. As has already been announced, special financial provision has been made for the improvement of Highland roads. Any increase in the existing subsidy for steamer services in the Western Highlands would require the approval of the House.

Lord Malcolm Douglas-Hamilton

Is my hon. Friend aware that the Inverness Chamber of Commerce had not up to the end of last month received even an acknowledgment of the report? Does he realise that the apparent continued indifference of the Government to Highland transport problems is causing exasperation in the North? Is there not a precedent for intervention by the Minister when transport charges injure a community, as in the case of the London area?

Mr. Molson

I am extremely sorry if by inadvertence the report was not acknowledged. It has certainly been received and is being given careful consideration. I agree that in certain circumstances there may be occasion for intervention, but not when machinery for the consideration of rates has been provided by Statute.

Mr. Woodburn

Can the hon. Gentleman say whether his right hon. Friends have yet produced any plan to deal with the situation arising from the disorganisation of road transport in the Highlands?

Mr. Molson

I am not aware of any "disorganisation" of road transport in the Highlands. As the right hon. Gentleman knows, the whole question of road transport is being dealt with at the present time.

Mr. Woodburn

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that the Government recently passed an Act disorganising road transport in the Highlands?