HC Deb 06 May 1936 vol 311 cc1691-2
36. Sir HENRY JACKSON

asked the Minister of Transport whether he has now considered the representations made by local authorities that the present basis of grants to road improvements in built-up areas should include the cost of acquiring necessary property and not site value only?

Mr. HORE-BELISHA

With the approval of my right hon. Friend the Chancellor of the Exchequer, I have decided to admit as ranking for grant from the Road Fund the net cost of property required for the purpose of approved schemes of road improvements in built-up areas. The adoption of this more comprehensive basis is subject to appropriate modifications in the rates of grant. I will circulate in the OFFICIAL REPORT a copy of the circular lei ter explanatory of the rates of grant which will be available under the new arrangements which I am to-day sending to the associations representing highway authorities. Copies will be sent to each highway authority as soon as practicable.

Mr. EDE

As from what date will the new grants come into operation?

Mr. HORE-BELISHA

Immediately, Sir, on the receipt of the circular which I propose to send out.

Following is the circular:

Circular No. 466 (Roads).

To the Clerks to:—

County Councils, County Borough Councils, The Common Council of the City of London, Metropolitan Borough Councils, Town Councils, Urban District Councils, in England and Wales.

County Councils, Town Councils, in Scotland.

Ministry of Transport,

Roads Department,

Whitehall Gardens,

London, S.W.1.

May, 1936.

Sir,