§ 37. Sir L. Ropnerasked the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation whether his Department will negotiate for the purchase of the toll rights of Selby toll bridge.
§ Mr. Boyd-CarpenterI will go into the question of these rights when I am able to provide for the inclusion of a new bridge here in the programme.
§ Sir L. RopnerIs my right hon. Friend aware that as long ago as 1939 negotiations for the purchase of these rights were far advanced? Does he not share the view that the problem of this toll bridge is at least as urgent now as it was in 1939?
§ Mr. Boyd-CarpenterI understand, and I am well aware, of my hon. and gallant Friend's very proper concern about the situation in connection with this bridge but, as I said in reply to a previous Question, I really must concentrate on the construction of the most needed highways and, as I said in my main answer, when that point is reached in respect of this bridge I will go into the matter of the tolls.
§ Miss BaconIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that the condition of this bridge is an absolute disgrace, and has been for many years? Is he aware that if this bridge were free the road would be used as an alternative route between Leeds and the West Riding and the coast, and would help to relieve the appalling congestion which the right hon. Gentleman knows exists at Malton? Can he also say whether or not it is his responsibility or that of his right hon. Friend the Chancellor of the Exchequer 1298 to have any check on the amount of money which is collected at that toll bridge? When I go over it, I invariably get no receipt of any kind.
§ Mr. Boyd-CarpenterI would rather not answer, without notice, the question of whether the hon. Lady has been overcharged.
§ Miss BaconNo, not overcharged.
§ Mr. Boyd-CarpenterI agree that the condition of the bridge leaves much to be desired. but I had better not reflect too much at this Box on what is, after all, somebody else's property.