21. Mr. Edward M. Taylorasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what proposals he has put to Glasgow Corporation regarding the setting up of a Passenger Transport Authority in the Glasgow area; and if he will make a statement.
§ Dr. Dickson MabonNone. I have now completed consultations with all parties concerned in this question, and my right hon. Friend is considering the outcome in the light of the Wheatley Report.
Mr. TaylorDoes the Minister realise how satisfactory his answer is? Is he saying that he has now abandoned any plan to saddle the ratepayers of Glasgow with a loss on electric trains? Does this mean that we shall have no news of a possible public passenger transport authority until such time as we have legislation on Wheatley'?
§ Dr. MabonTo the first part of the supplementary question, the answer is, yes, and I am pleased that the hon. Gentleman is satisfied with the answer. To the second part of the supplementary question the answer is, no, and to the third part the answer is that the hon. Gentleman must await a statement on the matter.
§ Mr. RankinDoes not my hon. Friend agree that already we have more than sufficient authorities in our midst, and should not fewer authorities be created?
§ Dr. MabonMy hon. Friend, who is the first man to argue a case for the integration of public transport, will be ready and willing to examine any proposals for a P.T.A. between now and when the Wheatley Report is implemented if it is suggested by the Secretary of State. That is the point of the question, and I promise that a statement will be made soon.
§ Mr. Gordon CampbellWill the Minister guarantee that he will not try to impose a passenger transport authority against the wishes of the local authority?
§ Dr. MabonNo single local authority will have a veto over the question of a P.T.A. A P.T.A., if it is suggested at all, will be discussed with all the authorities concerned.
Mr. TaylorIn view of the incomprehensible nature of that reply, I beg to ask leave to raise the matter on the Adjournment.