HC Deb 25 January 1967 vol 739 cc1463-5
2. Mr. Edward M. Taylor

asked the Minister of Transport what progress she has made in her discussions with the National Union of Railwaymen regarding open access to liner-train terminals for private road hauliers; and if she will make a statement.

The Minister of Transport (Mrs. Barbara Castle)

Since I last answered Questions on this subject in the House, freightliner traffic has continued to increase and B.R.S. vehicles have started serving the London-Aberdeen route. The open terminals problem involves the road transport unions as well as the N.U.R., and I am continuing my efforts to find a solution.

Mr. Taylor

Would the right hon. Lady agree that it is impossible to get the full potential from this wonderful new service unless we have open access? Can she say what specific steps have been taken since 20th July when the Prime Minister said that he had indicated to all concerned his determination that liner-train services should go ahead on the basis of open terminals?

Mrs. Castle

I entirely agree with the hon. Gentleman that this wonderful new service should be used to the full, not least in the interests of the railwaymen themselves. I share the Prime Minister's determination. I have had a series of negotiations with the unions involved, and I am confident that we shall find a solution if we handle this in the right way.

Mr. Tom McMillan

Would my right hon. Friend agree that the N.U.R.'s decision to open or not to open terminals will be made at this year's annual general meeting? If requested to attend that meeting and address the delegates, will my right hon. Friend ask to do so before the decision is made and not after the decision, as last year?

Mrs. Castle

I am only too happy to consider any invitations from the transport unions to attend their annual general meeting and to explain points in my policy to them. I agree with my hon. Friend that it is rather happier if one is allowed to speak before the relevant decision is taken.

Mr. Peter Walker

Would the right hon. Lady comment on the position of the licensing authorities which receive applications for vehicles other than those of British Railways although terminals remain closed to other vehicles which are available to carry goods to the terminals?

Mrs. Castle

Certainly not. The licensing authorities are independent authorities and it is not for me to comment on what decisions they reach in their wisdom.