§ 15. Mr. Dalyellasked the Minister of Transport what is his estimate of the cost of bridges and tunnels on the Trans-Pennine Way.
§ Mr. CarmichaelThe estimated cost of bridges, excluding minor structures, on the 43¼ miles of the Lancashire—Yorkshire Motorway, M62, between Worsley and the Lofthouse Interchange with the M1 is £14.21 million. There are no tunnels proposed.
§ Mr. DalyellWhilst not grudging facilities for the citizens of Manchester and Sheffield, is it not a little rough on those of us who live near bridges over water such as on the Forth? Why should a construction which cost, according to the Answer, some £4 million less than the Forth Bridge carry no tolls, whilst those of us who live near the Forth Bridge have to pay tolls?
§ Mr. CarmichaelFor large estuarial crossings the only alternative route is much less convenient. The toll does not cause any material diversion of traffic. Toll collection costs are comparatively 5 low, because they are concentrated in the one place. There is a great saving in time and convenience for motorists in large estuarial crossings. Motorists do not need to go all the way round or alternatively wait for a ferry: there is a very genuine saving for them.
Mr. Edward M. TaylorDoes the hon. Gentleman recall that the 1964 manifesto in Scotland indicated that in the view of the Government Party such tolls as that on the Forth were indefensible?
§ Mr. CarmichaelBut there have been a number of changes. Since then there has been a speeding up of bridges and estuarial crossings. This was considered to be a fair way to pay for these crossings which brought such advantage to the motorist and others. It was considered that the toll was a fair way to meet the expense.