HC Deb 19 June 1935 vol 303 cc347-8
29. Mr. HERBERT WILLIAMS

asked the Minister of Transport what progress is being made on the reconstruction of weak bridges?

The MINISTER of TRANSPORT (Mr. Hore-Belisha)

During the last two financial years schemes for the reconstruction of 129 bridges in private ownership were approved for grant. During the current financial year I have already been advised of schemes for the reconstruction of 242 other bridges, which are to be put in hand during the current financial year.

Mr. HENDERSON STEWART

Has the Minister any figures to show the total number of such bridges that need improvement and ought to be improved?

Mr. HORE-BELISHA

I am always ready to give such particulars as I have.

Mr. THORNE

Could not the right hon. Gentleman have done a good deal more if it had not been for the Chancellor of the Exchequer "pinching" £5,000,000 from the Road Fund?

Mr. EVERARD

Will my right hon. Friend take into consideration the repairs necessary to railway canal bridges in country districts?

Mr. SPEAKER

That is a different question.

Mr. A. BEVAN

Do the schemes involve, not merely the reconstruction or reinforcement, but the widening of bridges?

Mr. HORE-BELISHA

Yes, Sir, in some cases they do.