§ 25. Mr. Manuelasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what was the mileage and value of road schemes in the preparation list on 30th November, 1969.
§ Mr. RossAbout 36 miles of trunk road schemes and bridges, estimated to cost some £33 million. This is in addition to some 70 miles of major trunk road schemes costing about £45 million which are planned to start by 1971–72, and to principal road schemes which are being prepared by local authorities.
§ Mr. ManuelWhile I thank my right hon. Friend for that reply, could he inform the House what will be the mileage and value of road schemes to be actively commenced during this year?
§ Mr. RossI think it is difficult to say exactly what it will be, but if my hon. Friend will put down a Question limited to that point I shall be glad to answer it.
§ Mr. YoungerWill the right hon. Gentleman say why he has downgraded the last section of the M8 to a trunk road instead of a motorway, as was originally 504 planned, and why the M9 has been held back to such an extent that it has no chance of being completed by the original contract date of 1972?
§ Mr. RossThis has nothing to do with Question 25. If the hon. Gentleman wants information on this point he should put down a Question on the matter.