HC Deb 08 March 1960 vol 619 cc223-4
20. Mr. Stodart

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what representations he has received from the Association of County Councils in Scotland concerning traffic problems arising from recent industrial developments to the west of Edinburgh and the construction of the Forth road bridge; and what reply he has sent.

Mr. N. Macpherson

The Association has suggested that a conference of all interested authorities should be convened to discuss these problems.

In reply my right hon. Friend has expressed the view that much more information than is at present available about traffic movements in the area should be sought before such a discussion could serve a useful purpose.

Mr. Stodart

Is my hon. Friend determined to be unaware of the considerable public interest which is felt in this matter and of the fact that it has been expressed by many reputable bodies, including the Association of County Councils, and will he give greater consideration to the views which have been expressed upon what these bodies regard as an urgent problem in the light of the coming of the Forth road bridge and industrial development at Bathgate?

Mr. Macpherson

It is because my right hon. Friend is aware that there may be problems here that he wants to get the basic information first before he goes on to discuss with the various authorities what steps should be taken in the matter.