HC Deb 30 July 1958 vol 592 cc1350-1
53. Mr. Beswick

asked the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation what proposals he is now considering for the transport of passengers from Central London to London Airport; and when he expects to make a decision regarding them.

Mr. Watkinson

I am already improving the road transport of passengers by means of the Cromwell Road extension, together with the construction of the Chiswick flyover and widening the Bath Road. A draft scheme for the construction of the new motor road from the Chiswick flyover to the airport entrance tunnel was published earlier this month and will be pressed forward as quickly as possible. I await detailed proposals from the promoters of monorail and other systems and will then compare these with the scheme for a conventional rail link.

Mr. Beswick

Does not the Minister agree that the real solution to this problem is the provision of a rail link? Are we to understand that this is still under consideration, and when does the right hon. Gentleman expect to make a decision about it?

Mr. Watkinson

I am not prepared to accept that statement. A monorail may be a better and rather more modern way of doing it. But as soon as I get the report on that, which I expect shortly, I will come to a conclusion.

Mr. Gresham Cooke

Is my right hon. Friend able to say what would be the cost either of a rail link or a monorail?

Mr. Watkinson

No, Sir; that is what I am waiting for.