§ 27. Mr. Murrayasked the Minister of Transport when she proposes to establish the regional and conurbations transport authorities for the integration of passenger transport.
§ Mrs. CastleI am proposing, in consultation with the Economic Planning Councils, to set up regional transport coordinating committees in the autumn of this year. The establishment of transport authorities must await legislation, following consultation with the local authorities and public transport operators.
§ Mr. MurrayIs my right hon. Friend aware that her decision to set up these authorities to integrate public transport will be widely welcomed? When does she hope to introduce the necessary legislation?
§ Mrs. CastleI thank my hon. Friend for the first part of his supplementary question. I entirely agree that the need for these widely embracing transport authorities is very urgent. The need for integration of public passenger transport has been evident for some time. I hope to be able to introduce the necessary legislation next Session.
§ Mr. GalbraithThe right hon. Lady referred to co-ordination and her hon. Friend spoke of integration. Is there any difference?
§ Mrs. CastleThere is a very big difference. One can have co-ordination more or less successful between two separate sovereign bodies. What we need here is a merger of ownership and control.