§ 37. Mr. Ernest Daviesasked the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation what action has been taken following the inquiry into starting and finishing times of work instituted by the Committee for Staggering of Working Hours in Central London, and otherwise to relieve traffic congestion by staggering the hours of work.
§ Mr. WatkinsonAfter its preliminary review the Committee is tackling the problem by dividing Central London for this purpose into zones, each with a widely representative sub-committee to work out and progress a scheme for each zone. Further information is being provided by the travel census now being taken by the British Transport Commission. Good progress is being made outside the central area in discussions between London Transport and education authorities. Fourteen schools have already changed their hours.
§ Mr. DaviesWhile appreciating that this action is being taken in regard to this very necessary matter of staggering working hours, may I ask the Minister whether he appreciates that, in view of the improved traffic conditions, public opinion now is far more receptive than formerly to action being taken? Would not it be advisable to undertake an educational campaign among the travelling public in order to get them interested in continuing the staggering of hours even after petrol rationing has ended?
§ Mr. WatkinsonI am grateful to the hon. Gentleman for raising this matter. In conjunction with the London Transport Executive and British Railways we are shortly going to start a publicity campaign, which I hope will do some good.