HC Deb 03 May 1937 vol 323 cc791-2
68. Mr. Whiteley (for Mr. Mathers)

asked the Minister of Transport whether he has considered the representations made to him by the Forth Road Bridge Promotion Committee asking for an assurance that the scheme is approved in principle and will be proceeded with within a definite time; and whether he is prepared to make a declaration which will permit of the large amount of necessary preliminary work to be put in hand?

Mr. Hore-Belisha

The considerations which prevailed when I made my statement on this subject on 5th November last are even more dominant to-day, and I can add that the local authorities have been informed that they need not be deterred from taking, in the preparation of plans, discussions with interested parties or otherwise, such preliminary steps as may not involve them in material expenditure and may seem to them expedient before the scheme can again be brought to the attention of the Government.

Mr. T. Johnston

Is this scheme approved in principle?

Mr. Hore-Belisha

I cannot amplify the language which I used on 5th November.

Mr. Johnston

This seems to be a fairly simple question and one that is capable of a direct answer. Is this scheme approved in principle or not?

Mr. Hore-Belisha

It is not approved or disapproved in principle..