HC Deb 24 April 1967 vol 745 cc1157-8
57. Mr. Victor Yates

asked the Minister of Transport if she will give a general direction to the British Railways Board that in cases where the closure of a station is under consideration the normal access to such station shall be permitted pending her decision.

The Joint Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Transport (Mr. Stephen Swingler)

No, Sir. This is a matter within the management discretion of the Railways Board. But users may, if they wish, make representations to the area Transport Users Consultative Committee.

Mr. Yates

Is the Minister aware that while the closure of Snow Hill Station is under consideration all entrances which are most convenient to the public have been closed and the only entrance which has been kept open is the one which is most inconvenient? Is it not rather disgraceful not to take into consideration the inconvenience of the public in this matter?

Mr. Swingler

This is a matter of management for the Railways Board. I understand that one entrance to Snow Hill has been closed. Complaints have been made about it, and representations were considered, I think, three or four days ago by the Transport Users' Consultative Committee. My hon. Friend will appreciate that this in no way prejudices my right hon. Friend's decision about the closure proposals.

Mr. Webster

Will the hon. Member say whether any activity is going on at Snow Hill and whether there is reasonable access to people requiring to use it?

Mr. Swingler

I am informed that there is reasonable access but that one entrance has been closed. Complaints have been made and are being considered. This managerial action in no way prejudices the Minister's consideration of the closure proposals.

Mr. Manuel

Will my hon. Friend ask his right hon. Friend whether she would give directions that when proposals are made for the closure of a station none of the facilities then existing ought to be abolished until the decision has been made by the T.U.C.C.?

Mr. Swingler

No. Sir. I do not think that it would be practicable to say that no services could be changed and no facilities altered through the sometimes many months during which a proposal for closure is being considered. This is a matter of judgment by the management. But the fact is that any managerial alterations which are made will in no way influence my right hon. Friend's judgment on the merits of a closure proposal.

Mr. Yates

On a point of order, Mr. Speaker. Owing to the unsatisfactory nature of the Answer, I wish to give notice that I shall raise the matter on the Adjournment at the earliest possible opportunity.

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