Lieutenant-Colonel Sir F. HALLasked the Home Secretary whether, in the event of the Ministry of Ways and Communications Bill becoming law, it is the intention of the Government to leave the wharfingers free to carry on their business in the same manner as they have in the past; but if, on the other hand, they are to be taken over under the powers given to the Minister, will it be on the same terms as were laid down in the Port of London Authority Bill?
§ Mr. SHORTTUntil the Minister-designate has had an opportunity of acquainting himself with the position and methods of business of the wharfingers, he is not in a position to say to what extent, if any, he will find it desirable to exercise such control as the Bill would enable him to exercise. The Minister-designate will take an opportunity of consulting with 'the Port of London Authority and the wharfingers as soon after the proposed Bill becomes law AS is possible.