HC Deb 12 April 1927 vol 205 cc186-7
67. Mr. MACQUISTEN

asked the Minister of Transport what progress is being made with the Tyndrum-Ballachulish road; what is or was the approximate date of the commencement of its construction; and what has been spent on surveying the ground for this road?

Colonel ASHLEY

As stated on the 24th March in my reply to one of the hon. Members for Dundee, I hope that tenders will very shortly be invited by the Argyll County Council for the first section of these road works. The expenditure up to date upon surveys, the study of alternative locations, the preparation of plans and specifications and upon preliminary investigations generally has been about £15,000.

Mr. MACQUISTEN

Will the right hon. and gallant Gentleman take into consideration the statement made yesterday by the Chancellor of the Exchequer that the Ministry of Transport was unable to sustain the Road Fund; and will he take the opportunity of that statement in order to get sufficient money to proceed with this road and other necessary roads in the Highlands?

Colonel ASHLEY

The hon. and learned Gentleman seems to want more money for Scotland.

Mr. MACQUISTEN

That is so.

Mr. JOHNSTON

Arising out of the original answer, what reply has the Minister received from the county council to his request that in future they should take labour from the Employment Exchanges for the roads?

Colonel ASHLEY

I must have notice of that question.

Mr. JOHNSTON

You promised it

Mr. KIRKWOOD

Will the action of the Chancellor of the Exchequer in raiding the Road Fund have any effect in stopping roads like this from being completed?

Colonel ASHLEY

No, provision is made for this West Highland road.

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