9. Mr. Edward M. Taylorasked the Secretary of State for Scotland when a passenger transport authority will be established in the Glasgow area.
Mr. TaylorAs the Minister has already refused to give me an assurance that he will not force a P.T.A. on Glasgow against its wishes, can he at least give a promise to the people of Glasgow that before he insists on a P.T.A. being established he will make it clear to the ratepayers of Glasgow and other authorities what a P.T.A. will mean in increased rates?
§ Dr. MabonThe hon. Gentleman will know that the Lord Provost, who has approached the Government formally on this matter, as well as Glasgow Corporation, is well aware that if the corporation has points to raise about boundaries, membership or other matters we will certainly arrange a meeting with a Scottish Minister, if not my right hon. Friend. The local authorities have now had three months to make informal comments. After we have had these there will be a further process of consultation about any draft designation order, but no single authority can have the right of veto over the promotion of a P.T.A.
§ Mr. SmallDoes my hon. Friend recognise that the Scottish T.U.C. supports the introduction of the P.T.A.?
§ Dr. MabonYes. In addition, the hon. Member for Glasgow, Cathcart (Mr. 400 Edward M. Taylor) is perhaps not aware that most of the Press, including the Right-wing Press—perhaps that is not a commendation—endorses the fact that the P.T.A. is a good idea.