HC Deb 30 October 1957 vol 575 c190
14. Mr. Brockway

asked the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation what decision he has reached on the proposal made to him by a committee representing the British Transport Commission, the British European Airways and the British Overseas Airways Corporation that railway communications should be established between Victoria Station. London, and London Airport.

Mr. Watkinson

Having studied the Report of the Committee, I have asked the Chairman of the British Transport Commission, in consultation with the Airways Corporations, for further information, which I am hoping to have before the end of November.

Mr. Brockway

While thanking the right hon. Gentleman again for that reply, may I ask him whether it is clear that the opening of the terminal at Kensington does not rule out proposals for inter-railway communication with Victoria?

Mr. Watkinson

It is not quite like that. I have announced plans for a very large expenditure on improved road communication between west London and the airport. I have now asked for a further study to be made of the rail link. I ought to add that I am still very interested in a possible monorail link, and this we shall have to discuss.

Mr. Woodburn

Is there any chance of the vacant space underneath the air terminal being used for a stop on the present Underground railway? Gloucester Road is about ten minutes walk away, and it is a little inconvenient for people to get there because there is no bus service.

Mr. Watkinson

I have asked the Transport Commission, now that the terminal is opened and now that they can assess the passenger traffic, to say what further improvements may be necessary to make it as accessible as possible.