§ 31. Mr. DAVID GRENFELLasked the Minister of Transport whether he has considered the proposal to build a bridge across the mouth of the Severn for facilitating road transport between South Wales and the South of England; and whether, having regard to the advantages to the population served by local authorities on both sides, he will convene a conference of representatives from all the counties and boroughs interested so as to assist the promotion of a scheme for this purpose?
§ The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the MINISTRY of TRANSPORT (Captain Austin Hudson)No definite proposals for constructing a bridge across the mouth of the Severn have as yet been submitted to my right hon. Friend though he understands that the matter is under the consideration of the Gloucestershire County Council, with whom he is in touch. My right hon. Friend does not think that a conference, such as is suggested by the hon. Member would serve any useful purpose at the present time.
§ Mr. GRENFELLWill the hon. and gallant Gentleman consult his right hon. Friend as to whether he would be prepared to give some encouragement in a pronouncement from this House to these neighbouring local authorities?
§ Captain HUDSONThe initiative must come from the highway authority, but I can assure the hon. Member that we are in touch on this matter at the present time.