55. Sir F. HALLasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Transport whether his Department have any information as to the proposal of the City Corporation to proceed with the construction of the new St. Paul's bridge; what is the present estimated cost of the work; whether the scheme has been reviewed since the Ministry of Transport was set up specifically to consider and advise on traffic arrangements and the provision of new facilities; and whether, in view of the large expenditure which has been incurred in recent years in the improvement of Blackfriars and London bridges and the rebuilding of Blackfriars bridge, all three of which cross the river within a distance of less than a mile and converge on similar points both north and south of the river, he will consider the advisability of approaching the City Corporation with a view to the matter being reconsidered?
§ Mr. NEALThe construction of the new St. Paul's Bridge was authorised by Parliament in 1911, and the Minister has full particulars of the scheme. Sir Eric 832 Geddes, when Minister of Transport, received a deputation from the City Corporation, who asked for assistance from the Road Fund. The Minister, while unable to give assistance, expressed general approval of the proposals as likely to relieve traffic congestion. I have no information as to the present estimated cost.
Sir F. HALLTaking into consideration the fact that the three bridges are so near each other, will the hon. Gentleman consider whether the cost which would be involved in the construction of this new bridge could not: be utilised by the City Corporation for improving the traffic generally within the City of London?
§ Mr. NEALThe matter was left by Parliament entirely in the hands of the City Corporation. The Government have no power to interfere.
Sir F. HALLWill the hon. Gentleman consider that matter, and communicate accordingly with the City Corporation?