§ 72. Mr. Boultonasked the Minister of Transport whether the whole of the proposed scheme for road reconstruction from Lairg, via Laxford, Durness, to Tongue, North-West Sutherland, has been finally approved; if so, for what purpose these roads are being reconstructed; what is the estimated cost; and by whom is this to be paid?
§ Mr. BurginThe northern 55 of the 90 miles of route A.838 from Lairg through Laxford to Tongue are to be reconstructed at a cost of about £350,000, which will be borne entirely by the Road Fund. Work is in progress on about 40 of the 55 miles. Reconstruction is necessary because of the bad and often dangerous condition of the road.
§ Mr. BoultonIs the Minister aware that there is little or no traffic on these roads during six months in the year; and is it now the policy of the Government to make 100 per cent. grants for secondary roads?
§ Mr. BurginThis is part of what is known as the crofter county scheme, which is a very attractive scheme for improving the roads of West Sutherland, I am quite aware that at present the traffic is relatively slight; I hope that it will considerably increase.
§ Mr. KimballCan the Minister say whether it is a condition of these contracts that local labour should be employed; and, if so, how much?
§ Mr. BurginI could not say without notice.