HC Deb 25 May 1994 vol 244 c332
14. Mr. Raymond S. Robertson

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland how much has been spent in Scotland on upgrading trunk roads in each of the last four years.

Lord Douglas-Hamilton

The amount spent on new construction and improvement of motorways and trunk roads in Scotland was £172 million in 1990–91, £175 million in 1991–92, £198 million in 1992–93 and £196 million in 1993–94. Our continuing commitment to a sustained level of investment in our road network is demonstrated by my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Scotland's announcement last week which set out the Government's plans for the next three years.

Mr. Robertson

Is my hon. Friend aware that, thanks to the Government, Aberdeen is now linked by dual carriageway to the nation's motorway network for the first time and that it is possible to drive on roads of either dual carriageway standard or motorway standard from Aberdeen to Istanbul? Does he agree that that is good news for businesses in the north-east of Scotland, holidaymakers in Aberdeen and tourists from Turkey?

Lord James Douglas-Hamilton

It is good for business and for tourism and it is an encouraging step. We also intend to upgrade the A90 between Perth and Aberdeen to near motorway standard in the medium to long term, but this is a substantial step at this stage.

Mr. Norman Hogg

The Minister will be aware that yesterday there was a serious accident in my constituency resulting in fatalities and injuries and I know that he will wish to join me in sending sympathy to the bereaved relatives and to the injured. Will he undertake to write to me setting out the position that has been reached in relation to the upgrading of the A80 and the construction of the M80 motorway between Stepps and Haggs?

Lord James Douglas-Hamilton

First, I should like to be associated with the hon. Gentleman in sending sympathy to the families concerned. Of course there will be a full police inquiry which will be reported in due course.

The emphasis in future will be placed on achieving progress on upgrading the central Scotland motorway network and also on upgrading the A74 to motorway standard and upgrading the A1. The hon. Gentleman's point will certainly be remembered.