HC Deb 29 June 1966 vol 730 cc1765-6
10. Mr. Charles Morrison

asked the Minister of Transport what consultations she has had with regional planning boards regarding transport co-ordination; and whether she will make a statement.

Mrs. Castle

I have had several discussions with the Chairmen of the Regional Economic Planning Councils about transport policy and planning, including co-ordination of transport. I am taking account of their advice in drawing up my transport policy which I shall present soon to the House in a White Paper.

Mr. Morrison

Can the right hon. Lady say whether the regional planning boards were in agreement with the proposals which she intends to put in her White Paper when she had discussions with them?

Mrs. Castle

The right hon. Gentleman said "boards", but I think he meant "councils", because it is with the councils that I have been having my consultations. I have had consultations with them merely on those aspects of the policy which concern them, and we are moving together in broad agreement.

Mr. Mapp

Is my right hon. Friend aware that while regional councils have some value in regard to regional transport as such, there is an inherent weakness in their structure and background in dealing with inter-regional matters? Will she bear this limitation in mind in whatever advice she gets from such regional councils?

Mrs. Castle

It is my responsibility to see that regional transport plans are coordinated, and this is what I am trying to do.

Mr. Ronald Atkins

Does my right hon. Friend consult these councils before she sanctions railway closures?

Mrs. Castle

Yes, Sir. I take the advice of regional economic planning councils in all cases of proposed closure so that they can let me know not merely what is the current need, but what may be the potential need for the line under question.