HC Deb 11 December 1974 vol 883 cc503-4
14. Dr. Mabon

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what consideration he is giving to the extension of the designated area of the Greater Glasgow Passenger Transport Authority.

Mr. Millan

The present designated area reflects the main pattern of commuter demand in the West of Scotland. It will be reviewed with Strathclyde Regional Council when travel to work information becomes available from the 1971 Census, in a few months' time.

Dr. Mabon

Is my hon. Friend aware that there is considerable dissatisfaction in my constituency, and indeed all the lower reaches of the Clyde, at the present inadequate public transport system, and that we welcome his assurance that a review will be undertaken? If the Secretary of State does not, by extending the designated area, bring us within the passenger transport authority, what will be the position if Inverclyde District Council is asked to operate the bus services in that area in a similar manner?

Mr. Millan

I should have to wait until I saw what any proposal involved. If and when it is put to me, obviously I shall consider it, but this is a matter which in any case would have to be discussed in the first instance with the Scottish Bus Group, which is responsible for bus services in the area at the moment. I am glad to say that my hon. Friend is to discuss the problems in the area with senior officials from the bus group. I think later this week.

Miss Harvie Anderson

Is the hon. Gentleman not aware that representations are already being made which require improvements beyond the designated area to make the whole operation successful? Will not he look at these areas or lead the new transport authority to look at them, so that we may have extensions which will obviate the delay now being experienced in plans which have to reach beyond the present designated area?

Mr. Millan

Some movement has already taken place in rail services. For a general look at the matter in the region, we shall have to rely on the assessment of the new regional council. Obviously, we shall seriously consider any propositions which it puts up which involve Government action.