§ Mr. H. Fraserasked the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation whether he will state the number of snow plough units maintained in Staffordshire by his Department; the capital sum therein invested; the cost of maintenance and staffing of these vehicles; the number of times these vehicles were used in the winter of 1953–54; and whether, in view of the number of similar vehicles maintained by the county council, he is satisfied that there is no duplication of service.
§ Mr. MolsonMy Department maintains five snow plough units and 13 additional ploughs in Staffordshire. They cost a total of approximately £4,000. Maintenance cost £375 in 1953–54. Three ploughs were used for 45 hours and one plough for 29 hours in 1953–54, a year when the snow in Staffordshire was unusually light.
17WExperience has shown that when there are heavy snowfalls all of this equipment and that of the county council are needed to keep the roads clear. The county council operate the Ministry's equipment as well as their own, and there is no duplication of service.