HC Deb 01 March 1988 vol 128 c488W
Mr. Menzies Campbell

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland if he proposes to abolish tolls on the Forth road bridge and the Tay road bridge; and if he will make a statement.

Lord James Douglas-Hamilton

No.

Mr. Menzies Campbell

To ask the Secretary of Slate for Scotland what were the costs of the collection of tolls on the Tay road bridge in the years 1986 and 1987; and what were the interest charges paid in respect of the Tay road bridge during the same period.

Lord James Douglas-Hamilton

The collection of tolls on the bridge is the responsibility of the Tay Road Bridge joint board. However, I understand that collection costs for the years 1985–86 and 1986–87 amounted to £352,000 and £350,000 respectively. Interest charges on the loan outstanding to the Secretary of State amounted to £208,096 and £206,328 respectively.