§ 44. Mr. Fletcherasked the Minister of Transport whether he will now appoint an independent public inquiry into the failure of the London Transport Executive to provide adequate bus services for the people of London, as requested in the petition containing 145,000 signatures handed to him on 16th December last by the hon. Members for Bermondsey and East Islington.
§ The Minister of Transport (Mr. Ernest Marples)Since the proposal for another independent public inquiry into London's transport was first put forward, there has been a very substantial improvement in the bus services about which most concern was expressed. Bus manpower has increased by some 1,200 men in the last four months, and three-fifths of the mileage lost for lack of crews has been made good. In these circumstances, I have come to the conclusion that the proposed inquiry would not serve any useful purpose at this stage. I shall, however, continue to watch the situation carefully and to encourage all action which will improve conditions, especially in regard to traffic congestion, the rush hour peaks and planning in London.
§ Mr. FletcherI appreciate that reply; there has been some slight improvement since the petition was launched. But does not the Minister recognise that there is still great dissatisfaction among the London travelling public and the crews of the London buses regarding the administration of the London Transport Executive? In fairness to the bus crews, does not he think that an independent inquiry would produce some useful facts?
§ Mr. MarplesNo, Sir. Action was taken and a tremendous improvement has taken place. I do not think we should have an inquiry at this stage. But if matters were to worsen it might he necessary.
§ Mr. MellishIs the Minister aware that a demand for an inquiry came from the busmen who wish the public to understand that the chaos in London is not the fault of drivers? Is he aware that that is why they want a public inquiry?
§ Mr. MarplesLocal authorities also have passed resolutions, but as the matter is so much better, I do not think we should have an inquiry at this stage.