§ 36. Mr. Straussasked the Minister of Transport if he will direct the British Transport Commission to ensure the erection of shelters for omnibus passengers where these may be required.
§ Mr. MarplesThe British Transport Commission, like many other bus operators, often provides or helps to provide shelters for passengers. I do not think it would be right for me to direct it to do so.
§ Mr. StraussIs the right hon. Gentleman aware of the ridiculous situation in London where the London Transport Executive will pay only 50 per cent. of the cost of the erection of these shelters, which I believe cost only about £150, and says that the local authorities must provide the other 50 per cent., which they are refusing to do? The result is 457 that in areas like the Albert Embankment, in my constituency, which is open and windy and where about 5,000 workers come every day to work, an impasse has been created and no bus shelters have been set up for the past year or, indeed, at all. No action is likely to be taken by anyone unless the Minister or some outside authority ensures that the impasse is somehow resolved and that the money can be provided from one source or another to set up these essential bus shelters.
§ Mr. MarplesI do not think the London Transport Executive can be treated differently from other bus operators. If the right hon. Gentleman tables a question on the matter as it affects his constituency, I will look at it.
§ Mr. StraussIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that it is out of order to table a Question on a particular case asking for direction? Therefore, will he look at the matter on the basis of the general question which I have put to him today?
§ Mr. MarplesIf the right hon. Gentleman wishes to add any more detail to his supplementary question, perhaps he will write me a letter.