§ 65. Viscount CURZONasked the Minister of Transport whether any action has so far been taken to do away with level crossings over main arterial roads; whether he is aware that this would provide a large amount of work scattered all over the country, both for skilled and unskilled labour; and whether it is his intention to do anything in this matter?
§ Mr. GOSLINGI am afraid I have little to add to the answer which I gave to the Noble Lord on 26th May. A number of schemes for the replacement of level crossings by bridges have been assisted from the Road Fund, and I am ready to consider favourably applications from highway authorities for assistance to any practical proposals of a similar nature on important roads.
§ Viscount CURZONAre we to understand that the Minister of Transport is merely waiting for proposals from the local authorities rather than taking the initiative in the matter himself?
§ Mr. GOSLINGThey certainly should be initiated in that way.
§ Colonel ASHLEYWill the hon. Gentleman press the railway companies to contribute towards the cost of these undertakings in view of the fact that every level crossing that is done away with relieves the railway company of an expenditure of £700 or £800 a year?