HC Deb 08 July 1970 vol 803 cc638-9
2. Mr. Sproat

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland in view of the importance of a dual carriageway connecting Aberdeen with the Forth Road Bridge, and also with Stirling, whether he will give it priority in his roads programme over the period of this Parliament.

The Under-Secretary of State for Scotland (Mr. George Younger)

In assessing priorities for our road programme over the coming years my right hon. Friend will have full regard to the importance to Aberdeen, and, indeed, to the North-East as a whole, of improved road communications with the south.

Mr. Sproat

Is my hon. Friend aware that there has already been considerable delay in getting on with this project? Can he give an assurance that he will exert the utmost pressure to ensure that there are no further delays? Is he aware that better communications are absolutely vital if we are to attract more industry to the North-East?

Mr. Younger

I entirely agree with by hon. Friend that better communications are vital for the North-East. The Government's objective will be to improve these roads as soon as possible and get them to the standards required by the traffic likely to use them.

Mr. Sillars

Would the hon. Gentleman assure the House in connection with the road programme that there will be no cut-back in public expenditure in Scotland?

Mr. Younger

We are conducting a review of the road programme, among other programmes. In due course when we have consulted with those concerned we shall announce our policies.

Dr. Dickson Mabon

Is it the intention to have both trunk roads, the A92 and A94, as arranged?

Mr. Younger

This is a matter for consideration after the Tayside study is published.