§ Mr. LAWTHERasked the Minister of Transport if he will make provision to secure in any schemes of electrical development in rural areas that the ascertained views of the inhabitants, as expressed by and through the local authorities, are given priority over commercial interests by cables being placed underground, thus preserving the beauty and amenities of the neighbourhood?
1132Wapplications were received from omnibus proprietors for the amendment of the Restricted Streets Regulations made under Section 7 of the London Traffic Act, 1924, to permit existing omnibus services to be augmented or extended or to allow new services to be operated. Of these 102 were referred to the London and Home Counties Traffic Advisory Committee on whose recommendation 71 have been granted and 24 refused. Seven cases are still under consideration. Twelve cases which were clearly covered by previous recommendations of the Committee were refused without reference to the Committee. In addition 16 cases were not further considered because the Commissioner of Police of the Metropolis was not prepared, as the licensing authority under Section 6 of the London Traffic Act, to approve the route concerned. The proprietors concerned and the nature of the decisions arrived at in respect of their applications are set out below:
§ Mr. HERBERT MORRISONBefore my consent is given under the Electricity (Supply) Acts to the erection of any electric line above ground the local authorities concerned are entitled to be heard at a local inquiry if they so desire. Full consideration is given to their views in each case, but it is not possible for me to limit my freedom of action by laying down any such principle as is suggested by my hon. Friend.