§ 37. Colonel ASHLEYasked the Minister of Transport what is the present position of the negotiations between the Ministry of Transport and the local authorities with reference to the construction of the Liverpool to Manchester road?
§ Mr. GOSLINGNegotiations are still in progress. In order to ensure that the most advantageous line shall be adopted for the proposed road, having regard to possible mining developments, I am obtaining from an eminent mining engineer a report, which will, I hope, serve to expedite the discussion.
§ Colonel ASHLEYCan the hon. Gentleman say what is the attitude now of the Lancashire County Council and Liverpool in respect to this road; is he aware that the time is going on, and unless something is done we shall have the work carried on to the winter, and the unemployed still waiting?
§ Mr. GOSLINGI am anxious to expedite the work, but it must be done properly, and it is very important to have the view of this mining expert.
§ Colonel ASHLEYWhen the hon. Gentleman says that it must be done properly, has he in mind the fact that negotiations have been going on now for over two years? [HON. MEMBERS: "What was your party doing?"]
§ Mr. GOSLINGI do not want to blame anybody yet.