Roads and Bridges

HC Deb 12 January 1998 vol 304 c122W

Mr. Jenkin

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what assessment he has made of the impact on public expenditure of the measures contained in the Roads and Bridges (Scotland) Invergarry, Kyle of Lochalsh Trunk Road (A87) Extension (Skye Bridge Crossing) Toll Order (Variation) Order 1997; from what budget expenditure it is to be met; and if he will make a statement. [22377]

Mr. McLeish

The Order gives effect to the reductions in discounted tolls on the Skye Bridge agreed between my right hon. Friend and Skye Bridge Ltd. The impact on public expenditure depends on users' uptake of the discounted tolls, but is limited to a maximum of £600,000 per annum (at 1996 traffic and toll levels). The limit will be revised annually to reflect traffic growth and inflation. The public expenditure will be met from the Roads and Transport Programme and will displace other expenditure on that programme.