§ 74. Mr. DUNNICOasked the Minister of Transport whether he has received a communication from a conference of rural authorities, held at Brierley, Yorkshire, recently, relating to the question of highway expenditure by rural district councils; and whether, in view of the inability of these councils to undertake increased expenditure on the maintenance of reconstruction of highways, such additional expenditure being essential if such roads are to be maintained in proper condition, he proposes to grant to these authorities increased financial assistance?
§ Mr. GOSLINGI assume that the hon. Member refers to a conference held at Beverley, Yorkshire. If this be so, the answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. As regards the second part of the question, I would refer the hon. Member to the answers given on the 27th May to the hon. Member for Brecon and Radnor, and on the 3rd June to the right hon. Member for the New Forest and Christchurch Division. I am sending the hon. Member copies of these questions and answers.