§ 23. Mr. Clark Hutchisonasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what discussions he has had with Edinburgh Corporation about transport problems in the city and in surrounding areas; and if he will make a statement.
§ Dr. Dickson MabonMy right hon. Friend has asked Edinburgh Corporation, like other urban authorities, to prepare a comprehensive traffic and transport plan as a basis for traffic managements schemes and the allocation of grants for road improvements, and the Government are financially assisting the transportation and environmental study of the central area of the city.
§ Mr. Clark HutchisonI am glad to hear that, but when will these proposals be forthcoming? Does the Minister realise that traffic problems in Edinburgh are getting steadily worse? In his consideration, will he bear in mind the possibility of bringing back the local railways?
§ Dr. MabonI expected that last supplementary question. However, to comment on his first point, the hon. Gentleman knows how anxious my right hon. Friend has been to encourage Edinburgh to carry out two studies, and the city 1445 has agreed to do so. The transport side will cost £160,000, of which we shall contribute £60,000. The environmental side will cost £100,000, and the Department will contribute up to £50,000 of that. As for the railways, the hon. Gentleman knows that the intention of British Railways to retain only the main corridors has been supported by the East-Central Scotland Survey already. But it is a fair comment, and we shall take it into account.
§ Mr. WillisIs my hon. Friend aware that the abolition of fee-paying in Edinburgh schools will contribute considerably to the solution of the peak hour traffic problem in Edinburgh?