asked the Minister of Transport if he can make a further statement on the plan for later hours of opening for shops and restaurants as a means of helping the peak hour transport problem of London; and whether he has approached the Unions concerned about these later hours of opening.

The trade associations representing the West End shop managements have now informed me that the proposal is unacceptable to a majority of their members. I have their reply under consideration. The proposal was made by the Westminster North Transport Committee, which includes five trade union representatives out of 12 members, and was endorsed by the 14 Chairmen of the Transport Committees in Central London set up to consider the staggering of working hours. Each of these committees includes trade union representation.

Can my right hon. Friend say whether he is likely to form an opinion after consideration has been given?

I should like to make it plain that in all these matters there will be no decision imposed. It all depends on the co-operation of all concerned, particularly the staffs.