HC Deb 05 February 1969 vol 777 cc377-8
4. Mr. Eadie

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will make a statement arising from the Freeman-Fox Transportation Study commissioned by his Department with particular reference to the county of Midlothian.

Mr. Ross

I understand that the consultants will be meeting separately each of the authorities which sponsored the study, including Midlothian County Council, to explain the implications of their Report for its area. Thereafter, the Report will require study by all those concerned.

Mr. Eadie

Has my right hon. Friend been able to assess the reception which the Report has had generally in Scotland? Second, has he any information on any representation made from my constituency about certain aspects of the Report about which there seems to be some dispute?

Mr. Ross

There is no doubt that the Report has attracted considerable interest, and many aspects been welcomed, although there have been questions about other aspects in relation to the Esk Valley and so on. It is too early yet to say more; we still have to have the comments of the local authorities concerned before we further our discussions about it.