HC Deb 26 October 1954 vol 531 cc1735-6
11. Mrs. Mann

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what progress has been made with Coatbridge Town Council in respect of the problem of the Monkland Canal.

Mr. Henderson Stewart

My right hon. Friend has brought the town council's representations to the notice of the British Transport Commission, which has informed him that the council has an option, until November, 1955, to acquire the area of the canal within the burgh and pipe the water. The question of filling in the canal seems, therefore, to be one between the council and the Commission.

Mrs. Mann

The problem is one of money, and the cost to the council would be exceedingly high. Does the hon. Gentleman think that that was the way in which Glasgow's representations were dealt with?

Mr. Stewart

I think the hon. Lady is right about that, but the fact remains that the matter is really one for the Council and the Commission. Financial matters will, no doubt, be considered when they arise.