HC Deb 11 December 1929 vol 233 cc486-8W
Mr. D. G. SOMERVILLE

asked the Minister of Transport whether, in view of the scheme for the unification of London traffic, he proposes to include the main lines of railways having termini in London; and, if not, how it is proposed to adjust their conflicting interests with those of the other means of transport?

Mr. HERBERT MORRISON

I am not in a position to add to my statement of the 2nd December, in which I stated that the relations to be established between the consolidated enterprise and the amalgamated railway companies will receive careful consideration.

Sir K. WOOD

asked the Minister of Transport whether he is aware of the ever-increasing congestion of traffic on the south-eastern and south side of London; and whether he has sanctioned any proposals with the object of the mitigation of such, congestion and of improving the traffic facilities for South-East London?

Mr. HERBERT MORRISON

In response to an application from the London County Council, I have indicated my willingness to contribute towards the cost of constructing the section of the South Circular Road between Well Hall Road and Burnt Ash Hill. In addition, I am prepared to offer the council financial assistance towards the cost of approved schemes for facilitating traffic at the Elephant and Castle and Vauxhall Cross, and schemes to this end are now being considered by the council.

Mr. D. G. SOMERVILLE

asked the Minister of Transport the exact terms upon which Sir William McLintock has been engaged as a chartered accountant with regard to the proposed Traffic Board to control London traffic; what fees are to be paid to him; what is the exact nature of the work he will do; and what authority he will possess in any negotiations he may carry on with the traffic organisation concerned?

Mr. HERBERT MORRISON

Sir William McLintock has been appointed to advise the Government upon the financial aspects of the problem. His fee will be settled with due regard to the magnitude of the task and to the time which he requires to devote to the subject, but the charge for the services of his professional staff will be according to the usual scale of accountants' fees for the time actually spent upon the work.

Mr. ISAACS

asked the Minister of Transport whether he has under consideration any scheme for the improvement of streets in the vicinity of the Elephant and Castle for the purpose of relieving the congestion which now exists in that area?

Mr. HERBERT MORRISON

I have recently discussed with the London County Council the question of the relief of congestion at the Elephant and Castle, and I understand that the council now has the matter under consideration with a view to the formulation of the most practicable scheme.