HC Deb 18 May 1953 vol 515 cc1677-8
20. Mr. Ellis Smith

asked the Minister of Transport if the survey has now been completed for a new Stafford—Stoke-on-Trent main road that will by-pass Trent Vale and Newcastle; and where it is intended to place the proposed road on the list of priorities.

The Minister of Transport (Mr. Alan Lennox-Boyd)

I would refer the hon. Member to the answer which I gave him on 17th November last. I can add little except to say that a start has been made on the detailed surveys.

Mr. Smith

In view of the danger on this road, will the Minister consider giving it super-priority when the survey is finished?

Mr. Lennox-Boyd

It would be rather dangerous if I attempted to give relative priorities to different urgent works of this kind.

26. Mr. Ellis Smith

asked the Minister of Transport upon what basis grants are made to highway authorities for road maintenance, urgently required improvements and new construction, respectively; and why the City of Stoke-on-Trent is only allowed £686 for 1952–53, while places with less difficulties and population are allowed several thousands of pounds.

Mr. Braithwaite

Within the limits of the funds voted by Parliament annual grants are made to county councils for the maintenance and minor improvement of their classified roads, taking account of traffic needs, the condition of the roads and other relevant considerations. Grants for this purpose are not made to Metropolitan or county boroughs or large burghs in Scotland.

Grants for specific schemes of improvement and new construction may be made to any local highway authority. The sum mentioned by the hon. Member represents a 50 per cent. grant towards a scheme of improvement. Such grants are made to meet particular needs and comparisons between one locality and another are apt to be misleading.

Mr. Smith

Will the Parliamentary Secretary admit that this city suffers more from mining subsidence than any other city in the country, and, if so, will he undertake to give special consideration to these special circumstances?

Mr. Braithwaite

I have said that we are always prepared to consider specific schemes. There were three other schemes submitted to the Department from Stoke-on-Trent, and in two cases we asked for further particulars which we have not received. Perhaps the hon. Gentleman and I can discuss that.