§ Mr. McMasterTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what is his latest estimate of the amount expended in the 1995 local elections in Scotland on the provision of temporary ramps for access to polling stations; what assessment was made of the comparative cost and cost benefit of providing permanent ramps instead; and if he will make a statement. [24110]
§ Lord James Douglas-HamiltonGrants are not made towards the cost of temporary ramps for use at local government elections. However, grants are available towards the cost of temporary ramps to be used at parliamentary and European parliamentary elections. A 479W total of £11,914 has been paid in the last three financial years. Temporary ramps purchased for parliamentary and European parliamentary elections can be made available for local government elections and for other purposes by arrangement with the returning officer. Grants are not available towards the cost of building permanent ramps.