§ 12. Mr. HURDasked the Minister of Transport how much has been allotted from the Road Fund for the relief of unemployment; and whether this diversion has now entirely ceased?
§ The MINISTER of TRANSPORT (Colonel Ashley)Under the Development and Road Improvement Funds Act, 1909, it is provided that the Minister, in assisting works of road improvement and construction, shall have regard to the general state and prospects of employment. In present circumstances it has, therefore, been arranged that certain programmes of work shall be expedited, and it is estimated that the total Road Fund contribution to all works so authorised will amount approximately to £34,000,000. I would, however, point out that no works have been authorised under this policy unless they have an immediate traffic value. I am, therefore, unable to accept my hon. Friend's suggestion that there has been any diversion of moneys from the Fund for its legitimate purpose.
§ Mr. HURDIs it not a fact that money spent in this way for the purpose of relieving unemployment secures only something like 50 per cent. or 60 per cent. efficiency, and that, therefore, the real object which the right hon. Gentleman has in mind is not being fulfilled?
§ Colonel ASHLEYI cannot for a moment agree with the percentages put forward by my hon. Friend.
§ Colonel GRETTONIs the whole of this £34,000,000 for work done in anticipation of future requirements owing to unemployment?
§ Colonel ASHLEYIt is for works in anticipation of work that ought to be done as soon as possible. It is being done now, and has been done in the past, because of unemployment, without waiting for the normal time, which would be later.