§ Mr. CULVERWELLasked the Minister of Transport whether his attention has been called to the action taken by the London and North Eastern Railway Company in serving notice on coalowners that it is the intention to close the River Derwent for navigation as from 1st August; and whether, having regard to the injury which will be done to the inhabitants of the districts adjacent to the River Derwent by the waterway being closed to navigation, as is proposed, he will consider the desirability of securing by legislation or otherwise that the waterway in question shall be kept open?
§ Mr. HORE-BELISHAI have noticed statements in the Press to the effect that the railway company, on behalf of the proprietors of the navigation, have notified owners of boats that the locks in the river will be closed, but I am not fully aware of the present position. I will, however, make inquiries and let my hon. Friend know the result.