§ 19. Mr. William Hamiltonasked the Secretary of State for Scotland when he will announce his decision on the future level and nature of tolls on the Forth Road Bridge.
§ Mr. RossAfter I have had discussion with the Joint Board. I have asked it to review the matter in the light of the deficit on the first year's working, and its report will provide a basis for our discussion.
§ Mr. HamiltonCan my right hon. Friend say whether or not it is his intention to get rid of tolls altogether, as would be my desire—and he has said that he is always ready to listen to me? Secondly, if he cannot give that assurance, will he assure us that there will be no increases from the present rates of imposition?
§ Mr. RossWilling as I am to listen to my hon. Friend—and I have listened a lot to him on this subject—I assure him that first I have to listen to the Joint Board in respect of this matter. After I 196 have received its report I will make my decision.
§ Sir J. GilmourWill the right hon. Gentleman try to ensure that, if there is a change in tolls, there is a more equitable ratio between private and commercial users, since private users pay a disproportionate share of the cost at the moment?
Mr. BuchanDoes not my right hon. Friend agree that the best way to get rid of the deficit in the tolls is to abolish them?
§ Mr. GalbraithDoes this mean that the right hon. Gentleman has changed his opinion? Does not he recall that, just before the last election, the Labour Party stated that tolls were indefensible? Is this another case of backing out on a promise?
§ Mr. RossThe hon. Gentleman should have stayed more at home instead of stravaiging the world so much. Had he done so, he would have known that we have answered this on many occasions.