HC Deb 31 January 1977 vol 925 c54W
Mr. Teddy Taylor

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment what funds are available from his Department for the repair and maintenance of waterways in Scotland; and if any particular funds have been set aside to carry out repairs necessary to reopen the Caledonian Canal.

Mr. Denis Howell

My Department provides grant-in-aid to the British Waterways Board towards the maintenance of all its waterways, and I am at present considering the case for an increased level of grant in the current year. The grant paid to the board is, however, not allocated to particular purposes and the board is free to use it according to its priorities in the light of its statutory and other obligations.