HC Deb 19 February 1964 vol 689 c213W
Mr. Watkins

asked the Minister of Transport whether he will make a statement upon the recommendations of the Council of Wales Report on the Rural Transport Problem in Wales, Command Paper No. 1821.

Mr. Marples

I am continuing to keep the Council's views in mind when dealing with particular aspects of the rural transport problem as they arise.

As regards bus services, I have published a report of the results of the local rural transport surveys, including the study held in Montgomeryshire. I am in consultation with the associations representing local authorities and bus operators with a view to establishing what practical measures are best calculated to help.

In dealing with rail passenger closures my procedure is as I explained it to the House on 20th December. This ensures that full consideration is given to the social implications of proposed closures. The Railways Board's plans for recovering a greater share of bulky and heavy freight are outlined in the Report on the Reshaping of the Railways.

On roads, I have included some improvements to the north—south trunk road in my rolling programme and will consider further schemes for future extensions of it. As the hon. Member is aware, I do not think that the arrangements for minor roads should be changed.