HC Deb 23 February 1926 vol 192 c297
79. Mr. T. WILLIAMS

asked the Minister of Transport how many toll bridges have been taken over by local authorities and paid for out of the Road Fund since January, 1925?

Colonel ASHLEY

So far as I am aware no toll bridges have been taken over by local authorities since January, 1925. No contributions have been made to this purpose from the Road Fund under the Act of last year.

Mr. WILLIAMS

Was it not the intention of the right hon. Gentleman when he got his Bill last year to buy out as many of the toll bridges as possible?

Colonel ASHLEY

Yes, I have that power under the Act of 1925, but I am sure the hon. Member will appreciate that the initiative in those matters must come from the local authority, and I have no power to move in the matter.