HC Deb 07 March 1956 vol 549 cc2106-7
50. Mr. Ernest Davies

asked the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation what steps he proposes to take to relieve traffic congestion at peak hours by instituting the staggering of working hours.

Mr. Watkinson

The sub-committee of the London Transport Users' Consultative Committee has worked vigorously on this problem during the past year, but both it and I would like to see very much more and very much quicker progress. In the first instance I propose to discuss with the chairman of the sub-committee what further steps might be taken to assist it in the campaign and to secure more cooperation from the public.

Mr. Davies

In view of the relief which this arrangement can give to traffic congestion at peak hours in London, has the right hon. Gentleman considered the advisability of a Government Department setting an example? As the congestion in Whitehall is very acute at the peak period, could not a very good example be set by Government offices?

Mr. Watkinson

My own Ministry sets a good example, and I am glad to say that the Ministry of Works has also recently adopted the staggering principle. I hope that we may see some further progress in this direction.