§ 37. Mr. Maxtonasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what effects the restraints on local authority expenditure will have on their ability to clear snow and salt roads during this winter.
§ Mr. RifkindA modest increase in the provision for road maintenance, including winter maintenance, was made in the rate support grant order for 1979–80. In spite of the need for restraint in total expenditure, my right hon. Friend has made a further and more substantial increase of £5 million in the 1980–8l order, but it is for local authorities themselves to decide the priority for expenditure on individual services.