§ 74. Mr. McLean Watsonasked the Minister of Transport whether his attention has been called to several instances of congestion of traffic on the ferry passage at Queensferry recently; whether he is aware that the ordinary running schedule has been departed from and speeded up; and as this shows a preference for motorists to cross the Forth at this point, what steps is he taking to meet the increasing necessity for a road bridge in this neighbourhood?
§ The Minister of Transport (Captain Wallace)I understand that the congestion to which the hon. Member refers was entirely due to the abnormal traffic attracted to St. Andrews during the Open Golf Championship, and that apart from two additional crossings which were made for that reason on Thursday, 6th July, the ferry has been running to its normal schedule. With regard to the last part of the question, surveys have been made with the aid of grants from the Road Fund, but as I indicated to the right hon. Gentleman the Member for Kirkcaldy (Mr. Kennedy) on 17th May, I am unable at present to offer any contribution towards the construction of a bridge, in view of the other calls upon the national resources.
§ Mr. WatsonIs the right hon. and gallant Gentleman aware that not only on the occasion referred to but on several other occasions there has been the same congestion, and, in view of the fact that road traffic is increasing in that direction, will he reconsider the matter with regard to the construction of this bridge?
§ Captain WallaceNot, I am afraid, until the financial situation changes.
§ Mr. MathersIn order that the right hon. and gallant Gentleman may be informed about the actual conditions that do prevail at busy periods at this crossing, will he arrange for observers from his Department to be there, for: example, on August Monday?
§ Captain WallaceI will certainly consider that.