HC Deb 16 November 1955 vol 546 c398
40. Mr. Page

asked the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation the results of his investigation of the plan for monorail transport between Central London and London Airport; and whether he will make a statement.

Mr. Boyd-Carpenter

The possibilities of a rail or monorail service between central London and London Airport are now being examined by a Committee composed of officers of the British Transport Commission, the air Corporations and my Department.

Mr. Page

Having regard to the very long time that it takes to get from central London to London Airport, will my right hon. Friend hasten this inquiry?

Mr. Boyd-Carpenter

I am anxious to get its results but, of course, the monorail is not the only runner.

Mr. Stokes

Has the possibility of an underground railway been considered?

Mr. Boyd-Carpenter

The possibility has been raised but the cost of underground construction is now so high that I do not think that it is a likely starter.

Air Commodore Harvey

Would it not be possible for a body other than the British Transport Commission to be included on this Committee so that we can obtain a broader view of what can be done?

Mr. Boyd-Carpenter

The point that will arise if a scheme is put forward is whether it is remunerative and, if it is not, who is to pay for it. I think it much better dealt with at the moment by the bodies which I have mentioned.

Mr. Snow

Will my right hon. Friend ask the Committee to examine the excellent communications between Paris and Orly Airport?

Mr. Boyd-Carpenter

I am certain that the Air Corporations on this Committee are very familiar with them.