§ 19. Mr. Hannanasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what proposals have been made to him, either by interested parties or the Inland Waterways Advisory Committee, in respect of the redevelopment of the Forth and Clyde Canal.
§ Mr. MaclayI have received no proposals in respect of the redevelopment of the Forth and Clyde Canal other than the recommendations made in respect of this canal by the Bowes Committee on Inland Waterways. As stated in paragraph 19 of the White Paper of February, 1959, on the Government proposals following the Report of that Committee, these recommendations raise important issues and are being further considered by the Government.
§ Mr. HannanIs not the right hon. Gentleman aware of the danger to life from this canal and the recent increase in loss of life among children? Also, is not he aware of the menace to health, the hindrance to communications and the barrier which it provides against planning by local authorities? Cannot the right hon. Gentleman take the initiative in this matter and introduce a scheme for the redevelopment of the canal?
§ Mr. MaclayI am aware of the considerations which the hon. Gentleman has mentioned, but he will realise that there are others who hold conflicting views about the implications that he has mentioned. I think that this is a matter for ultimate consideration by the Inland Waterways Advisory Committee, which is at present giving attention to the Monkton Canal.