HC Deb 09 February 1955 vol 536 cc210-1W
63. Mr. Grimond

asked the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation what amounts remain unallotted and unspent, respectively, from the previous special grants allotted by this and the previous Government for Highland roads; and over what period they are to be expended.

Mr. Boyd-Carpenter

The 1950 programme of £¾million was superseded by the 1953 programme of £1 million, which absorbed the two schemes, estimated to cost about £370,000, left over from the earlier programme. Schemes which will involve a total Exchequer expenditure of about £980,000 have been provisionally chosen under the 1953 programme. Total grants of £380,562 have so far been issued, and it is intended to issue the remainder by the end of the three-year period.

64. Mr. Grimond

asked the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation to what extent the additional grant for Highland roads is in addition to the unexpended portions of similar special grants announced by this and the previous Government.

Mr. Boyd-Carpenter

I confirm that, as I stated on 2nd February, provision now proposed is additional to that under the 1953 scheme, which itself will be, as I stated, carried to completion.

65. Mr. Grimond

asked the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation if he will give some extra assistance towards the expenditure on roads to those Highland counties which have completed their work under the Crofter Counties Scheme.

Mr. Boyd-Carpenter

As I announced on 2nd February, additional grants will be made. Counties which have completed their work under the Crofter Counties Scheme will, of course, be eligible to apply for a share in these.