18. Mr. Edward M. Taylorasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what estimate he has made of the additional 457 cost to Glasgow ratepayers of establishing a passenger transport authority in the area.
§ Dr. Dickson MabonNone, Sir.
Mr. TaylorIs is not a shameful imposition on the ratepayers of Glasgow for the Minister to sit through four months of the Transport Bill providing for a P.T.A. without having any estimate of what it would cost? Can we at least have an assurance that he will not impose a P.T.A. on the Glasgow ratepayers without the agreement of the Glasgow Council?
§ Dr. MabonOne cannot make an estimate when one does not know the area designated, the nature of the services which the P.T.A. will want to operate if it is set up, or the level of fares likely to be charged. It is quite ridiculous to imagine that anyone could make an estimate of that kind.
As to the second part of the hon. Gentleman's question, which is that we should give the power of veto to any one authority not to impose a P.T.A. on any part of Scotland even if the others are willing, I am afraid that I cannot agree to that.
Mr. TaylorOn a point of order. In view of the highly unsatisfactory nature of the Minister's answers, I beg to give notice that I shall seek to raise the matter on the Adjournment at the earliest opportunity.