Canals and Inland Waterways

Oral Answers to Questions — Transport Commission – in the House of Commons am 12:00 am ar 26 Ebrill 1948.

Danfonwch hysbysiad imi am ddadleuon fel hyn

Photo of Mr Joseph Sparks Mr Joseph Sparks , Acton 12:00, 26 Ebrill 1948

asked the Minister of Transport why no directive has yet been given to the British Transport Commission to facilitate and encourage transport and navigation for commercial and pleasure purposes upon the navigable canals and inland waterways.

Photo of Mr Alfred Barnes Mr Alfred Barnes , East Ham South

In view of the general duty placed upon the British Transport Commission by Section 3 of the Transport Act, 1947, such a direction is unnecessary.

Photo of Mr Joseph Sparks Mr Joseph Sparks , Acton

Is my right hon. Friend aware that the Railway Executive Committee, like the railway companies previously, appear to be placing a good deal of obstruction in the way of the use of the canals for transport and pleasure purposes? In view of the shortage of railway wagons and locomotives, will my right hon. Friend make some representations to see that the maximum use is made of the canals and inland waterways system of the country?

Photo of Mr Alfred Barnes Mr Alfred Barnes , East Ham South

I do not think obstruction can take place in the British Transport Commission's set-up. My hon. Friend knows that a special Executive is charged with the problem of fully utilising the ports, canals and inland waterways of this country, and therefore it is they who have jurisdiction over the canals. I have no reason to think that they will not be anxious to develop them to their fullest capacity.