HC Deb 21 November 1956 vol 560 cc1726-7
24. Mr. G. R. Strauss

asked the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation what progress has been made in preparing experimental schemes for the installation of parking meters; and when the first scheme is likely to be in operation.

Mr. Watkinson

The Committee which I set up in March to survey the parking position in inner London has submitted a Report, which will be published shortly; it includes certain proposals for the initiation of parking schemes. The relevant sections of the Road Traffic Act, 1956, will be brought into force on 1st January, 1957; thereafter it is for the local authorities responsible for initiating schemes to put their proposals to me. I have every hope that they will do so.

Mr. Strauss

Can the Minister say when it is likely that the first parking schemes will come into operation? Will it be during the next six months or so; and is it only in inner London that an early scheme is likely to be initiated, or might there be one outside?

Mr. Watkinson

In reply to the first part of the right hon. Gentleman's Question, the initiative, as I have said, clearly rests with the local authorities, but I am very hopeful that some of the inner London authorities—I will not mention them by name—will come forward quite soon with schemes, once the plan is published. As to areas outside London, I am afraid I cannot answer that without notice, but I will try to answer it if the right hon. Gentleman puts down a Question on the subject.

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