§ 74. Mr. Lipsonasked the Minister of Transport whether he is aware that the cost of the maintenance, repair, and improvement of unclassified roads is imposing a heavy and increasing burden on the ratepayers, especially in agricultural counties; and whether he is now prepared to make a contribution towards the expense incurred by county councils on these roads?
§ Mr. BurginI have received representations on the matter from various quarters. The hon. Member will be aware that maintenance grants in respect of unclassified roads were discontinued by the Local Government Act, 1929, being merged in the general Exchequer contribution. I have no power to restore them.
§ Mr. LipsonDoes not the Minister agree that these roads were originally constructed to carry comparatively light traffic but are now called upon to take lorries, chars-a-bancs and other heavy vehicles, and that the money allowed under the block grant is quite insufficient for the heavy expenditure required; and will he not reconsider the matter in the light of these observations?