§ Mr. TAYLOR(by Private Notice) asked the Minister of Transport if the proposal of the Notts County Council, the Lindsey County Council and the Gainsborough Urban District Council to purchase the toll bridge over the River Trent at Gainsborough has received his sanction and approval, and whether he can state the purchase price agreed to, together with the original cost of this bridge and the year in which it was built?
§ The MINISTER of TRANSPORT (Colonel Ashley)I understand that the local authorities are considering proposals for the purchase of this bridge, preliminary particulars for which have been communicated to me, but no decision has been reached. The proposals at present would, I understand, involve the promotion of a Private Bill by the local authorities.
§ Mr. TAYLORCan the right hon. Gentleman give the information asked for in the latter part of the question; and is it a fact that the sum suggested is £130,000—for a bridge that cost £12,000 to build 150 years ago?
§ Colonel ASHLEYIt would be improper for me to give the suggested purchase price when the negotiations are in progress.
§ Mr. PALINGHave the Ministry of Transport been asked to contribute towards the cost, and do they intend doing so if the proposals go through?
§ Colonel ASHLEYThe Ministry of Transport are always asked in all cases to contribute towards roads and bridges.
§ Mr. PALINGWill the Minister answer the part of the question as to whether they intend to do so?
§ Colonel ASHLEYI could not bind myself.
§ Mr. TAYLORIs it not the fact that these figures have been published in the newspapers, and will the Minister give the House an assurance that, before he consents to a proposal of this kind, he will consider the alternative of building a new bridge, or seeking some compulsory powers to prevent this kind of brigandage?
§ Colonel ASHLEYThis is a matter for the local people to consider. When they put a proposal before me I will consider it on its merits, and see whether I can give something towards it.