asked the Minister of Transport if he is yet able to make any statement with regard to toll bridges?

In September, 1925, I caused a Circular to be issued to all local authorities calling attention to the provisions of the Roads Improvement Act, 1925, regarding the freeing of toll roads and bridges. In many districts the matter is engaging the close attention of the local authorities, with whom the initiative must rest, and who are in consultation with officers of my Department. In a few cases the proposals for freeing existing bridges are now assuming a definite shape, and in other instances the erection of a new toll-free bridge is in contemplation.

Can the right hon. Gentleman do anything to facilitate the freeing of these toll bridges, which are a great expense to people living in the immediate neighbourhood, who in going backwards and forwards sometimes have to pay 3s. and 4s a day?

I quite appreciate the hon. Member's point, and I am doing all I can, but I must make it clear to the House that the initiative in all these matters rests with the local authorities.

Will the right hon. Gentleman consider taking a general step to free all toll bridges—taking it on the initiative of his Department?

The hon. Member's proposal raises very large financial considerations which I cannot entertain at the present moment.

Will the right hon. Gentleman urge local authorities to take over the toll bridges owned by private individuals, which form a very great burden on products of industry having to use those bridges?

I am pointing out in my answer that I did send out a Circular last year defining the powers of local authorities under the Act.

Will the right hon. Gentleman send out another Circular?

Will the right hon. Gentleman pay special attention to the necessity for laying down a sound basis for compensation in a case that is likely to come before him presently; and will he see that the public are not fleeced by compensation being based on unreasonable toll charges?

think that point does not arise.