HC Deb 21 July 1931 vol 255 cc1242-3
58. Mr. TURTON

asked the Minister of Transport if he can give an estimate of the cost of the pylon scheme between Malton and Whitby if it followed the railway line between Malton and Whitby and did not cross the hill-tops?

The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the MINISTRY of TRANSPORT (Mr. Parkinson)

I understand that the estimated total cost of the line between Malton and Whitby as designed to be carried out by the Central Electricity Board is £63,000, that if the railway line were followed the extra cost of constructional works would be at least £16,000; and that if by crossing the hill-tops is meant a route on the west side of the river, the extra constructional cost would be at least £10,000. I also understand that both alternative routes pass through country inaccessible to contractors' lorries unless proper roads and several bridges were constructed. This would of course involve additional expense.

Mr. TURTON

Will the hon. Gentleman consider constructing the line from Norton to Whitby instead of from Malton to Whitby in order to preserve the beauty of the moorland scenery between Malton and Whitby?

Mr. PARKINSON

I take it that all those points have been taken into consideration by the Board.

Mr. MACLEAN

On a point of Order. Is not this a hypothetical question, "if it goes a certain way?"

Mr. SPEAKER

It seems quite an ordinary question.

59. Mr. TURTON

asked the Minister of Transport what is the estimated cost of the Malton-Whitby pylon scheme, including the cost of the transformer substations, pylons, and line; and whether the scheme provides for a double or single line?

Mr. PARKINSON

I understand that the total cost of the line, which is a double circuit, including transformer stations and pylons, is approximately £63,000.

Mr. TURTON

Can the hon. Gentleman say to how many people this will give electric light at a cost of £63,000?

Mr. PARKINSON

No, not without notice of the question.

Mr. C. WILLIAMS

Can the hon. Member say if the material is all British or not?