HC Deb 18 June 1956 vol 554 c1039
21. Mr. C. Hughes

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food how many applications for grants he has received under the Agriculture (Improvement of Roads) Act, 1955; and what is the amount in grants that has been paid out to highway authorities.

Mr. Amory

I have received two applications. No payments have yet been made.

Mr. Hughes

Is the Minister aware that this is one of the schemes intended to assist the hard-hit upland areas of Wales and Scotland? Is he aware that there will be widespread disappointment in those areas that no grants have been paid out? Can the Minister say when grants will actually be paid out to the highway authorities?

Mr. Amory

I shall very shortly send out a memorandum of guidance to local authorities; but I am bound to say that the restrictions on capital expenditure at present in force make it extremely unlikely that I shall be able to approve proposals for immediate execution, much as I should like to do so.