§ 63. Mr. PALINGasked the Minister of Transport if he is aware that during the last few weeks the Leeds and Liverpool Canal Company have scheduled no less than 325 bridges and are issuing writs against anyone who attempts to pass over I scheduled bridge with a larger weight than the notice provides for, and that as a result road transport is disorganised and serious delays are taking place; and whether he proposes to take any steps towards having such bridges repaired and strengthened so that heavy loads may pass over them?
§ Colonel ASHLEYThe hon. Member is, I think, under a misapprehension as 1024 to bridges having recently been "scheduled." The Canal Company appear merely to have notified road users of restrictions already in force. In the circumstances mentioned, it rests with the responsible highway authorities to negotiate with the Canal Company regarding any necessary strengthening of the bridges.
§ Mr. PALINGIn view of the number of bridges that are being restricted in that way, and the consequent disorganisation of road traffic, cannot something more be done to get over this difficulty?
§ Colonel ASHLEYThe hon. Gentleman is under a misapprehension when he says they have been recently restricted in this way. They have been restricted for a long time, but possibly the notices have only recently been put up. With regard to the other part of the question I have made inquiries, and we do give grants sometimes towards bridges if approached by the local authority.