§ 41. Mr. Ernest Daviesasked the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation what action he proposes to take on the Westminster parking scheme which has been the subject of public inquiry.
§ Mr. WatkinsonAs required by the Road Traffic Act, 1956, I have referred the scheme and the formal objections to it, together with the report of the public inquiry to the London and Home Counties Traffic Advisory Committee. I expect to receive their report by the end of this week.
§ Mr. DaviesIs not this another matter where it is regrettable that there is such long delay? It is now nearly two years since the Road Traffic Act received the Royal Assent, and this scheme was put forward over a year ago. Will the Minister see whether he cannot speed the procedure for bringing the parking schemes into effect, in view of the growing difficulties and traffic congestion in London?
§ Mr. WatkinsonI agree entirely with the hon. Gentleman on this matter. There has been very long delay, which I much regret. On the other hand, it is right that frontagers and other people interested should have the constitutional right of putting their case before a public inquiry. That has been one of the main reasons for the delay, but I hope to have the report at the end of this week and I hope the House will agree that I shall then act on it.