§ 43. Sir J. AINSWORTHasked the Minister of Reconstruction whether he will arrange for an independent Report on the possibility of constructing a ship canal from the Forth to the Clyde, and of reconstructing the Crinan Canal, so as, by both schemes, to provide a complete water-way from the East to the West of Scotland; and what would be the probable cost of such a Report?
§ The MINISTER of RECONSTRUCTION (Dr. Addison)I am advised that there is no doubt as to the possibility of constructing a ship canal from the Forth to the Clyde, and of reconstructing the Crinan Canal. As regards a canal from the Forth to the Clyde, I would refer the hon. Member to the answer given to the Member for Falkirk Burghs on the 10th June. As regards the Crinan Canal, I cannot, as at present advised, undertake to recommend the Government to adopt the suggestion of my hon. Friend.
§ Sir J. AINSWORTHWill the right hon. Gentleman take steps to ascertain what would be the probable cost of a survey, bearing in mind that a large number of surveys have been made over the whole of the ground, and that therefore the cost ought not, in my judgment, to be large?
§ Dr. ADDISONWe have made an examination of the cost of the survey, and it has been decided not to undertake it.
§ Mr. WATTHas not the War shown to the right hon. Gentleman and to the Government the absolute necessity of having one of these canals across Scotland in good working condition?
§ Dr. ADDISONThe decision was arrived at after a long consultation with the Admiralty and the War Department.