On Wednesday the Royal Commission on Canals and Inland Waterways
took evidence on the construction of a ship canal from the Forth to the Clyde. Provost Archibald Christie, of Falkirk, stated that the best route would be almost identical with that of the present barge canal. It was under- stood that this route involved no engineering difficulties, and the cost would be from £6,500,000 to 27,000,000. The canal would be of great commercial and strategic importance. It would pass through the heart of the Scottish iron industry, and be in touch with the mineral fields. He regarded the scheme as of such importance that he considered it the duty of the Government to undertake it. Lord Shuttleworth asked if a less expensive canal would not suit Falkirk, but the witness answered that a comprehensive scheme was advisable. We believe that the canal would be a great benefit to the nation, but we do not desire that it should be made at the public cost. It should pay as a commercial enterprise.
Previous page
