§ 9. Sir J. Gilmourasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what effect the increase of tolls at the Forth Road Bridge has had on the number of commercial vehicles using the bridge; and if he will make a statement.
The Minister of State, Scottish Office (Dr. J. Dickson Mahon)Since the new tolls were introduced the Forth Road Bridge Joint Board has recorded vehicles according to the toll paid, and therefore no figures are available showing changes in the use of the bridge by commercial vehicles alone.
§ Sir J. GilmourAm I right in saying that the total revenue indicates that the increase in tolls has not decreased the number of commercial vehicles using the bridge?
§ Dr. Dickson MabonI am not able to confirm that, but present indications are that the amount of traffic for the year ended 31st May, 1970, while still above that for the preceding 12 months, may be about 5 per cent. less than the forecast. This remains to be seen.