HC Deb 23 February 1938 vol 332 cc352-3
68. Mr. Malcolm MacMillan

asked the Minister of Transport whether any road construction is in progress under the five-year road plan in the Island of Barra?

Mr. Burgin

Plans and estimates for the improvement of 13 miles of the Class I road in the Island of Barra have been submitted by the Inverness County Council, and I have agreed that the county council should invite tenders so that the works can be put in hand as soon as possible.

Mr. MacMillan

Will the right hon. Gentleman regard this as a matter of extreme urgency in view of the fact that the five-year plan, now three years old, is still only a plan?

Mr. Burgin

It is difficult to put into operation the construction of roads until the county council have made plans.

Mr. MacMillan

Can we have an assurance from the Minister that he will bring pressure to bear on the county council to expedite this matter?

69. Mr. MacMillan

asked the Minister of Transport what is the cause of nearly three years delay in starting the five-year road plan on first-class roads in the outer isles of Inverness-shire?

Mr. Burgin

Schemes have been prepared by the Inverness County Council for the improvement of 61½ miles of road in the Outer Isles. Work has already begun on 13 miles in Harris and tenders are being invited for the remainder. There has been no avoidable delay.