§ 1. Mr. Hector Hughesasked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he is aware of the recommendations of the Royal Commission on Scottish Affairs relating to roads and bridges in Scotland; of the dangerous nature of the Bridge of Don at Aberdeen which links two essential parts of a main traffic artery to the northeast of Scotland, and of the urgent representations of Aberdeen Corporation that it be widened; and, in view of these facts, if he, in collaboration with the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation, will take immediate steps to implement the promises of the Government to have this bridge widened.
§ The Joint Under-Secretary of State for Scotland (Mr. Henderson Stewart)My right hon. Friend is in consultation with the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation about the Scottish schemes to be included in the expanded road programme. As the hon. and learned Gentleman is aware, my right hon. Friend, the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation, will be making a statement on the subject very soon.
§ Mr. HughesIs the Minister aware that from correspondence I have had with the Ministers, it appears that each of these two Ministers is seeking to place responsibility on the other? As neither of them holds out any hope of the bridge being built before 1956, and as this will inflict great loss and damage on the people of Scotland, will he take steps to improve the position?
§ Mr. StewartThere is no ground whatever for the suggestion that Ministers 872 are "passing the buck," one to the other. The closest consultation takes place. As to the Bridge of Don, the hon. and learned Gentleman will perhaps await the statement.
§ Lady TweedsmuirThis bridge has been under consideration for a very long time. Before a statement is made will my hon. Friend make representations that the bridge should have a much higher priority than has apparently been allotted to it to date?
§ Mr. StewartI hope that my noble Friend will not be disappointed with the answer she receives.
§ Mr. WoodburnIs this not a united affront to Aberdeen?