§ Mr. Stubbsasked the Minister of Transport if he is aware of the difficulties arising in the preparation of annual highways maintenance estimates due to the delay in notifying county councils of the funds likely to be available for the ensuing financial year; and whether such notification can, in future, be made earlier than the latter part of January in each year.
§ Mr. BarnesI am aware of these difficulties and do my best to meet them. My hon. Friend will, however, understand that the Road Fund Estimate has to be considered along with all other estimates to be submitted to the House. Although I was unable to do so this year, it is always my endeavour to send out the information to highway authorities early in January.