HC Deb 26 March 1969 vol 780 cc1617-8
37. Mr. Edward M. Taylor

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what plans he now has to establish passenger transport authorities in Scotland; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Millan

My right hon. Friend has not yet concluded the discussions referred to in his reply to the hon. Gentleman on 27th November.—[Vol. 774, c. 126.]

Mr. Taylor

Does the Minister agree that the establishment of a passenger transport authority in the Glasgow area would inevitably mean a substantial increase in the rates, which are already causing great hardship? Will he give a specific pledge that the Government will not insist on the establishment of a P.T.A. in Glasgow if Glasgow Corporation and the people of Glasgow do not want it?

Mr. Millan

My hon. Friend the Minister of State has been having discussions with all the interests concerned within the last two months. These discussions have taken in the local authority associations, the Scottish Transport Group, some of the trade unions concerned, and, particularly, the local authorities comprising the Clyde Valley Planning Advisory Committee; so there are extensive consultations now going on.

Mr. Gordon Campbell

Will the Minister give an assurance that, for Scotland as a whole, the Government will not establish P.T.A.s against the wishes of the local authorities and the public in the areas concerned, and will he thus enable this part of the Transport Act to be delayed in the sensible way in which the Minister of Transport decided to delay the egregious quantity licensing sections?

Mr. Millan

The only area which is under active consideration at the moment is the Glasgow area, and, as I say, extensive consultations are taking place.