§ 35. Mr. PENNYasked the Minister of Transport whether he is aware that dissatisfaction is being expressed at the slow progress being made in regard to the construction of the arterial road from Kingston Vale to Esher; will he state the reasons for the delay and what steps are being taken by the Ministry to expedite the work; whether he considers the road will be completed in the time and at the cost specified in the original contract; and, if not, what additional time and expenditure is likely to be involved before the work is completed?
§ The MINISTER of TRANSPORT (Colonel Ashley)The progress of the Kingston by-pass scheme, which is being carried out by the Surrey County Council, was hindered by adverse weather conditions last winter, and since then differences which have arisen between the County Council and the contractors have further delayed the work. Until these matters in difference have been determined, I regret that I am not in a position to give further particulars.
§ Mr. PENNYIs the delay in any way due to the fact that they have to employ outside labour on these schemes?
§ Colonel ASHLEYThere are two reasons. The first is the weather, and the second is that there is a certain difference between the county council and the contracting firm.
§ Mr. BUCHANANIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that the dispute between the county council and the firm in question is causing a good deal of hardship to the men because the work is not proceeding, and will he take steps to deal with the matter?
§ Colonel ASHLEYThe hon. Member must not assume that Government Departments never consider these questions. I have been dealing with this matter for the last six weeks. It is a very difficult question indeed.