HC Deb 25 November 1931 vol 260 cc391-2
26. Mr. TRAIN

asked the Minister of Transport how many suggested or proposed schemes in Scotland for road and bridge construction and improvement have been abandoned since August last; and what is the estimated amount of money involved?

Mr. PYBUS

In order to reduce expenditure from the Road Fund the resources of which have been heavily overcommitted, it has been necessary to review schemes of road and bridge construction and improvement in Scotland, as in the rest of Great Britain. I have in all cases proceeded after consultation with the local authorities concerned, and, while my survey of the position is still incomplete, I have arranged up to the present for a reduction in the commitments of the Road Fund in Scotland in respect of an estimated total expenditure of approximately £700,000. Of the saving thus secured, about £520,000 will inure to the advantage of the Road Fund, and the balance to that of the local authorities concerned. In some cases it has been possible to postpone work altogether; in other cases schemes have been curtailed, but care has been taken to ensure, so far as practicable, that the work carried out forms in itself a useful improvement to the highway system.

Mr. TRAIN

Have all these schemes been suggested by my hon. Friend or by his Department, or has there been any suggestion from the local authorities in question?

Mr. PYBUS

In the majority of cases, I am happy to say, the curtailment of schemes has been carried out with complete agreement between the local authorities and my Department.

Mr. BUCHANAN

Can the hon. Gentleman say how many men will be affected by this saving of £700,000—how many men will lose work or not be started in work?

Mr. PYBUS

I must have notice of that question.