HC Deb 27 November 1952 vol 508 cc97-8W
Sir W. Darling

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland how far the place of the Forth and Tay bridges in the development of the East Coast has now been confirmed; and if an assurance can be given that local planning can proceed on that definite understanding.

Mr. Lennox-Boyd

I have been asked to reply. The line and limits of deviation of the proposed Forth Bridge have been fixed by an Act of Parliament and land is being acquired by the Joint Board responsible for the bridge. Only preliminary proposals have been made for a road bridge over the Tay. No line has been fixed and no request has been made for planning to proceed.

Sir W. Darling

asked the Minister of Transport in view of the substantial sum already guaranteed by the local authorities concerned, if he will give an undertaking that the Forth Road Bridge will now be brought to the head of the priority list.

Mr. Lennox-Boyd

I would refer my hon. Friend to the reply given to the hon. Member for Fife, West (Mr. Hamilton) on 17th November.