HC Deb 23 November 1966 vol 736 cc1377-8
19. Mr. Galbraith

asked the Minister of Transport when the regional transport co-ordinating committees will be set up; and what will be their powers.

94. Mr. Dalyell

asked the Minister of Transport when the regional transport coordinating committees will be set up; and whether she will state their terms of reference.

Mrs. Castle

As soon as I have received the necessary nominations from all the various bodies I have approached.

The terms of reference of the Committees are: to study the transport arrangements in the region, advise on, and where possible arrange for, the implementation of the steps necessary to get a more effective and co-ordinated service by public passenger transport and secure its greater use by the travelling public.

Mr. Galbraith

Am I right in thinking that they have no powers except persuasive powers?

Mrs. Castle

It is true that they are purely persuasive bodies, but a lot can be done by joint discussion and by persuasion, as we have found as a result of setting up the Transport Co-ordinating Council for London.

Mr. Dalyell

Do the terms of reference cover the problems of containerisation in ships?

Mrs. Castle

No. They are designed to improve facilities in passenger transport.