§ 51. Mr. Awberyasked the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation if he is aware that the Bristol City Council has prepared a five-year plan which is considered the minimum required to reduce the congestion of traffic on the roads in the city which amounts to £3 million; that the grant authorised by him for road improvement this year is only £41,000, and that this is inadequate; and if he will take steps to substantially increase this amount.
§ Mr. Boyd-CarpenterI am aware of the plan of the city council. I am afraid I cannot increase the amount of grant this year.
§ Mr. AwberyHas the Minister estimated, as he has reduced the estimates, how long it will take the Bristol City Council to complete its five-year plan?
§ Mr. Boyd-CarpenterThe estimates to which the hon. Member refers as having been reduced are, of course, the estimates 1021 of the council. Within the financial limits, I have done my best to meet them in respect of grant. I do appreciate that Bristol has very considerable problems.
§ Mr. AwberyWill the Minister reconsider the very substantial reduction made in the grant?
§ Mr. Boyd-CarpenterI should like notice of any allegations of reductions in specific grants.