Monkland Canal, Coatbridge

HC Deb 15 March 1960 vol 619 cc1089-90

2. Mr. Dempsey

asked the President of the Board of Trade if he will now make a grant to the appropriate local authority towards the removal of the unsightly section of the Monkland Canal, Coatbridge.

Mr. J. Rodgers

The Board of Trade has no power to make a grant for this purpose. I would advise the hon. Member to wait until the Local Employment Bill has become law, when the local authority could approach the Secretary of Stale for Scotland under Section 5 (4) of the new Act.

Mr. Dempsey

Whilst thanking the Minister very much indeed for his kind advice, may I draw his attention to the fact that this particular project was approved by his Department in November, 1947, and that, therefore, at this time of day it seems rather strange that it is not a matter for the Board of Trade at all?

Mr. Rodgers

Two derelict site projects at Coatbridge have already been approved. Unfortunately, the Monkland Canal, which I agree is an unsightly mess, did not prove to be derelict in the meaning of that word at law, which is why it must await the new Local Employment Bill.