§ 18. Sir R. THOMASasked the Minister of Transport whether he is aware that there still exists a toll gate on the main road from Cardiff to Barry, Penarth, and other populous and rapidly expanding areas; that the only alternative routes are hilly and narrow and abound in dangerous sharp curves; and whether, in view of these facts, he will take steps to abolish the toll gate in question?
§ Colonel ASHLEYI am aware of the facts set forth by the hon. Member, and am prepared to consider any application which may be formulated by the responsible local authorities for assistance from the Road Fund towards the freeing of the toll road in question.
§ Sir R. THOMASIs this another case for somebody to apply to the Government before they do anything?
§ Colonel ASHLEYYes, most certainly. The matter rests with the local authorities, who are the highway authorities, and it is for them to ask for grants and not for the Government to approach them.
§ Sir R. THOMASThe right hon. and gallant Gentleman admits that the Government have to be bullied into everything.
§ Mr. CRAWFURDWill the right hon. and gallant Gentleman, in future road schemes, consider the possibility of constructing by-pass roads to avoid toll gates as you avoid other obsolete obstacles?
§ Mr. TAYLORWill the right hon. and gallant Gentleman consider the possibility of appointing a Select Committee 828 to consider the whole question of toll bridges all over the country as one problem?
§ Mr. MACQUISTENWill my right hon. and gallant Friend consider, before giving help to wealthy areas, whether he should not give setae money to the poorer districts in the north of Scotland?