HC Deb 08 February 1956 vol 548 c1662
51. Mr. G. R. Strauss

asked the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation what time limit for their deliberations he has indicated to the members of the committee he has set up to consider the problem of canals and inland waters.

Mr. Watkinson

None, Sir.

Mr. Strauss

In view of the fact that the Minister has given this committee very wide powers of reference to survey the whole problem of canals and inland waterways once again, is it not likely that, without some direction, the committee will take one or two years, possibly more, in doing its work, and that that will mean that it will be three years before a decision is made, and that the great uncertainty of this long delay will do harm? Ought he not to take some steps to prevent this serious and harmful delay from occurring?

Mr. Watkinson

I do not take such a depressing view of when I shall get the committee's report as does the right hon. Gentleman.

Mr. Strauss

Does not the right hon. Gentleman agree that an early report is desirable? Has he informed the committee of that? If he has not, will he do so?

Mr. Watkinson

This inquiry is, I agree, a matter of urgency, and that is the opinion of the gentlemen who are carrying it out.

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