§ 76. Mr. Randallasked the Minister of Transport if he will issue instructions making it possible for approved estimates on classified road expenditure to be notified to local authorities before the commencement of the new financial year, as this would be of considerable assistance and saving in preparing for the execution of the work.
§ Mr. BarnesI agree with my hon. Friend that this is desirable—but it can only be done if the estimates of all highway authorities concerned are received well before the end of the financial year.
§ 78. Mr. Randallasked the Minister of Transport if he is aware that estimates for classified road expenditure for 1947–48 programme were submitted by the Padiham Urban District Council in November, 1946, and not given final approval until 21st May, 1947; that, in the meantime, cost of bitumen and sand had increased and the original estimates had to be increased by £250 due to this delay; and if he will ensure that estimates are approved earlier in future.
§ Mr. BarnesMy hon. Friend is no doubt referring to the estimates submitted by the Padiham Urban District Council to the Lancashire County Council, which is the responsible highway authority. The county council's estimates for 1947–48 were received by my Department on 22nd April last, and on 14th May the Council was notified of the amount of the estimates approved for grant.