HC Deb 05 July 1978 vol 953 cc441-2
11. Mr. Michael McNair-Wilson

asked the Secretary of State for Transport when he intends next to meet the general secretary of the Transport and General Workers' Union.

Mr. William Rodgers

Soon.

Mr. McNair-Wilson

When the Secretary of State next meets Mr. Moss Evans, will he seek from him an assurance that the Transport and General Workers' Union will not either employ or threaten to use industrial action against companies which have installed or are contemplating installing rail sidings by using a section 8 grant because they wish to convey some of their goods on the railways?

Mr. Rodgers

I should not want to speak to Mr. Moss Evans precisely in those terms. I think that he fully recognises the importance of a co-ordinated transport system in which road and rail carry that part of freight which is best suited to them. I am glad to welcome the development of section 8 grants. I had considerable pleasure in opening a major scheme only three weeks ago.

Mr. Spearing

When my right hon. Friend next meets or, indeed, communicates with the general secretary of the Transport and General Workers' Union, will he make it quite clear that the Government have no imminent decision to make on the Port of London Authority's proposals? Indeed, will he confirm that there are no proposals yet before him and that, if any come and whatever they may be, the Government's proposals for inner city regeneration will be fully taken into account when their response is made?

Mr. Rodgers

I think that there were three parts to my hon. Friend's supple. mentary question. The answer to all three is "Yes".