HC Deb 08 September 1931 vol 256 cc4-5
Mr. MILLS

(by Private Notice) asked the Minister of Transport the reason for delay in commencing construction of the Dartford-Purfleet Thames Tunnel approved by Parliament in 1930, and whether the tenders have yet been settled and the contract allocated?

The MINISTER of TRANSPORT (Mr. Pybus)

Tenders for the pilot tunnel have been received, but have not yet been dealt with. The question of proceeding with the immediate construction of certain works of magnitude of which this tunnel is one must obviously be reconsidered in the present state of the national finances.

Mr. MILLS

Are we to understand the Dartford-Purfleet Tunnel, which has received the approval of Parliament and has passed through all its stages with all the attendant expense, is now to be scrapped?

Mr. PYBUS

I cannot add anything to what I have said.

Mr. OLDFIELD

Has the hon. Gentleman had any communication from, or has any expression of opinion been given by, the Essex or Kent County Councils on this matter, and will the hon. Gentleman undertake to consult both those authorities before he decides to scrap this scheme?

Mr. PYBUS

If the hon. Gentleman will put that question down, I will answer it.

Mr. MACQUISTEN

Is not there greater urgency for piers in Argyll than for this tunnel?