HC Deb 25 March 1959 vol 602 c1302
23. Mr. Ernest Davies

asked the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation whether he will now state whom he proposes to appoint as Chairman of the London Transport Executive in succession to Sir John Elliot; and which members of the Executive have had experience in the organisation of workers in accordance with Schedule 2, relating to provisions as to executives, of the Transport Act, 1947.

Mr. Watkinson

A successor to Sir John Elliot has not yet been appointed. There is one present member of the Executive who has spent a lifetime in work involving the organisation of workers and there are other members of the Executive who have had wide experience in staff matters.

Mr. Davies

Does the Minister appreciate the desirability of reaching a quick decision as to who should succeed Sir John Elliot, in view of the difficulties confronting London Transport and the undesirability of having a chairman in charge whose resignation is in his hands? Secondly, whilst it is true that Lord Geddes has spent his life in the organisation of workers, is it not a fact that he is only a part-time member?

Mr. Watkinson

The present circumstances are no different from those of the past. As to the successor to Sir John Elliot, I am anxious to find a man who will perform as able and successful public service as Sir John Elliot, and that may take some little time.